3 Side Effects of Not Replacing Missing Teeth

People have teeth extracted for reasons such as a failed root canal treatment, gum disease, or tooth decay. Afterward, many people ask: is it necessary to replace the missing teeth? Is it truly worth the time and money? The answer to both questions is a resounding “YES!”

If you are missing teeth and need Dr. Strandburg’s dental services, contact us today.

Consider the following reasons why it’s important to replace missing teeth:

Changes Your Appearance

Many people don’t think that foregoing tooth replacement is a big deal. But, when you don’t replace these teeth, your face shape can be affected. Missing teeth alters your face shape which contributes to an older-looking appearance. It can also affect your facial angles, chin position, and lip appearance.

Affects Your Bite & Surrounding Teeth

When you have missing teeth, your bite will change due to the space that has been created. It forces your jaws to open and close differently, and may lead to issues concerning chewing food and speech problems. Additionally, when a gap exists, your surrounding teeth begin to shift. Over time, your smile will change and gaps may form.

Decreases Oral Health

According to the American Dental Association, the definition of oral health is “a functional, structural, aesthetic, physiologic, and psychosocial state of well-being and is essential to an individual’s general health and quality of life.” When you are missing teeth, your oral health is affected in its entirety. To successfully avoid gum and jaw deterioration, you will want to take the appropriate measures to replace your teeth shortly after they’ve been removed. There are different ways we can replace your teeth – dentures, dental implants, and bridges are just a few options.

Dr. Strandburg is a Warner Robins, Ga, dentist who can replace your missing teeth with expertise and care. Call us at 478-287-2179 to set up an appointment.