Top 4 Reasons to Replace a Missing Tooth

While little kids get excited to lose their baby teeth and get a visit from the tooth fairy, adults don’t share the same feelings and experience when a permanent tooth goes missing. Adult teeth are designed to last a lifetime. However, poor oral hygiene, accidental trauma and other unfortunate circumstances can cause teeth to fall out sooner than we’d expect. Unlike primary teeth that fall out, permanent teeth need to be replaced.

Why Replace a Missing Tooth?

When a front tooth goes missing, it is easy to see the benefits in replacing that tooth. The appearance of your smile is at stake. However, the consequences of a missing tooth aren’t restricted to aesthetics. In fact, missing teeth can also impact your oral health and your quality of life. Here are some leading reasons why you should consider teeth replacement, even if you have just one missing tooth:

1. Protect Your Smile Appearance
   Your smile is most attractive when all your teeth are present and accounted for.
2. Avoid Shifting Teeth and Dental Health Issues
   When a tooth goes missing, the neighboring teeth will naturally migrate towards the empty gap over time. This can create crooked teeth that are more difficult to keep clean and healthy.
3. Retain Optimal Speech and Chewing
   Your teeth serve a vital purpose towards the way you speak and eat. When permanent teeth are lost, you may suffer limitations in speech and chewing that negatively affect your quality of life.
4. Prevent Premature Facial Aging
   Your jawbone needs your tooth roots to retain its density and form. Missing teeth reduce jaw bone stimulation, which can result in loss of bone and a shrunken or aged appearance in your lower face.

Restorative Dentistry for the Win

Fortunately, modern dentistry gives us remarkable ways to replace missing teeth. Restorative dentistry offers dental implants, crowns, bridges and dentures that look, feel and function like real teeth. Dr. Tejal Kakade is a talented restorative dentist that can talk to you about your teeth replacement options. When it comes to avoiding the drawbacks of missing teeth, prompt action is critical.