Tooth loss can cause a variety of problems that affect your smile and overall oral health. Replacing these missing teeth will help you regain your confidence and avoid future problems.
When a tooth is missing, biting forces are distributed differently and this can damage other tissues in the mouth. This can lead to the formation of crooked teeth and even temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder.
Causes
There are many reasons why patients may lose a tooth. Injuries and accidents can lead to losing teeth, as can poor oral hygiene habits that result in cavities and gum disease. Sometimes, missing teeth Dallas TX can cause more serious problems like bone loss.
In the present study, trauma accounted for the majority of missing teeth (40.9%) followed by caries (21.0%) and periodontal diseases 19.2%. This was different from the previous studies by Phipps and Stevens17 and Aderinokun and Dosumu18 which recorded that periodontal diseases accounted for the highest proportion of missing teeth followed by caries and then trauma.
Some people are born with a condition called hypodontia, which means they are missing some permanent teeth. This usually affects the wisdom teeth, upper lateral incisors, and second premolars or bicuspids. Hypodontia can result in poor mastication, speech, dental health problems and facial changes. The empty space left behind by missing teeth can allow the surrounding teeth to shift and crowd each other, which makes cleaning difficult and allows bacteria to collect.
Symptoms
The first thing most people notice when they lose a tooth is an empty space in their smile. This has a negative impact on self-image and confidence and can even cause social problems as it becomes difficult to eat in public.
The jawbone also starts to deteriorate because it stops receiving the stimulation it needs to remain healthy. This happens in the same way as muscle tissues break down when they are not exercised. This leads to bone resorption and loss, causing the other teeth to shift and become crooked.
This can affect occlusion (the way the chewing surfaces of your teeth come together), your bite, your gums, facial muscles and jaw joint. It can also cause a host of other symptoms including pain, sensitivity and even jaw and neck problems like TMJ. In severe cases, this can lead to a collapsed or lost jawline and facial structure. It can also make it harder to speak clearly, and even impossible in some cases.
Treatment
Many different treatment options exist for missing teeth Dallas TX. These include dental implants, dentures, and bridges. The best option depends on your specific needs, budget, and health history.
Regardless of the reason for your tooth loss, you should seek treatment as soon as possible to prevent further complications. Talk to your dentist about what options are available to you.
Dental implants are one of the most effective solutions for replacing a single missing tooth. They are small rods inserted into the gum and jawbone to replace the missing tooth’s root and primary structure, then topped with a dental crown for a natural-looking replacement that matches your existing teeth.
It may be difficult to chew if you’re missing a tooth in an area critical for eating, such as the molars or front teeth. This can lead to poor nutrition and even gum disease. It can also cause problems with your jaw and facial muscles. There is a close relationship between your teeth, musculature, and the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). Congenitally missing teeth adversely affects this relationship.
Prevention
Missing teeth are not just a cosmetic concern; they can lead to serious oral health problems. The best way to prevent missing teeth is to consistently practice good oral hygiene, including daily brushing and flossing. It is also very important to see the dentist for regular cleanings and exams. These procedures will help to identify and treat dental problems such as tooth decay, gum disease and bruxism, all of which can contribute to missing teeth if left untreated.
The most common treatments for missing teeth include dentures, dental bridges and dental implants. Dental implants are the most permanent option and provide a natural look and feel to the replacement tooth. The implant consists of a titanium support which is fused to the jaw bone, and a false tooth is then attached to this. Dental implants are more expensive than dentures or dental bridges but are typically the longest lasting solution to missing teeth.
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