If you’ve lost a tooth, particularly one that is not visible when speaking to others, it might seem like you can get away without replacing it, right? Unfortunately, not replacing a missing tooth can have serious physical and mental consequences. The replacement process is much easier than you may think and will be incredibly beneficial in the long run.
Having a missing tooth can lead to long-term problems both inside and outside of your mouth. Over time your teeth will shift in an attempt to fill the gap which leads to malocclusion, meaning your teeth are not aligned properly.
Malocclusion causes problems including overbites, crossbites, difficulty chewing, and an increased risk for tooth decay. Treatment for this is either braces or surgery, which will likely end up being significantly more expensive than a single tooth replacement would be.
Missing teeth can result in you not chewing your food properly, which can also lead to digestive issues. Remember, each tooth in your mouth has a purpose for proper chewing and digestion. Additionally, missing teeth can cause bone loss along the jawline, which can lead to a sagging appearance.
Replacing a tooth is no longer a big ordeal. The most common treatment is a dental implant, which takes roughly three months for the entire process to be completed. This includes plenty of time for your mouth to adjust to the implant and heal before the final crown or denture is applied. The end result is a tooth that looks and feels like the one that was lost.
If you’ve lost a tooth and need to get it replaced, call our office today at (610) 489-5555
