When we see patients that have lost one or more teeth, we urge them to receive a tooth replacement, such as a dental implant. However, in some cases the patient may ask if dental implants are really necessary to fill the gap in their smile. What’s the big deal about a space in their smile? In today’s blog, we’re going to look at the risks posed by a sudden gap in your smile due to tooth loss.
What Happen When You Have a Space in your Smile?
When you have a gap in your smile, the surrounding teeth can eventually drift from position, leading to overlapping teeth or crowding. The resulting misalignment can lead to difficulty brushing and flossing thoroughly, increasing the risk of tooth decay and gum disease. In addition, the pressure an uneven smile places n the jaw joints can make the onset of TMJ disorder and bruxism more likely.
Your body will also take notice of a missing tooth and stop sending key nutrients to the area around the lost tooth. Without regular doses of calcium and phosphorus, the jawbone begins to deteriorate. Soon, you can develop further tooth loss and an older appearance.
Misalignment Prevention
By replacing a missing tooth, you can prevent the onset of misalignment, allowing your smile to remain as it currently is and also prevent a host of related complications.
Avoiding Further Tooth Loss
Since a dental implant is inserted into the jawbone and acts like a natural tooth root, your body will take notice and allow calcium and phosphorus to once again flow to the surrounding jawbone. The growth of jawbone tissue is stimulated and you can enjoy a reduced risk of further tooth loss. As you can see, avoiding a space in your smile is crucial for your appearance and your oral health.
Do You Have a Space in Your Smile?
Dr. Lawson and our team can address gaps in your teeth with a natural looking and durable tooth replacement option! We can also discuss routine care to help you maintain optimal oral health for years to come. To learn more, schedule a consultation by calling our sleep dentistry office in Urbandale, IA, at 515-278-4366.
