Missing a tooth is more than just a cosmetic issue—it poses a significant threat to your oral health and overall well-being. Often overlooked, the bone beneath a missing tooth starts to deteriorate almost immediately. Over time, this silent process can lead to facial structure changes, difficulty performing daily activities, and even further tooth loss.
The good news is that solutions like dental implants can not only halt bone degradation but also restore your smile and oral functionality. Explore what happens when teeth are missing, why dental implants are the best solution, and why delaying action could lead to more complications now with Pence Family Dentistry.
What Happens When Teeth Are Missing?
Teeth play a vital role in maintaining the health and density of your jawbone. When you chew, the roots of your teeth stimulate the jawbone, sending signals that keep it strong and healthy. However, when a tooth is missing, this stimulation ceases, and a natural biological process called bone resorption begins.
Within the first year of losing a tooth, the jawbone in the affected area can lose up to 25% of its density. Over time, the decline accelerates, causing the bone to weaken and shrink further. This not only compromises the bone’s ability to support chewing and other functions but also creates a domino effect that negatively impacts your oral health, facial structure, and overall well-being.
The Long-Term Consequences of Bone Degradation
Failing to address missing teeth can lead to significant complications over time. One of the most noticeable changes is in your facial structure. Without the support of a robust jawbone, the cheeks and mouth begin to sink inward, leading to a sunken or aged appearance.
Oral health also suffers. The surrounding teeth can shift into the gap left by the missing tooth, resulting in misalignment. This misalignment increases the risk of gum recession, cavities in adjacent teeth, and a weakened bite.
Everyday activities like eating and speaking become increasingly difficult as bone degradation progresses. Chewing fibrous or crunchy foods can become uncomfortable, and speech may be affected due to changes in the jaw and teeth alignment. This often leads to a limited diet, making it harder to maintain proper nutrition.
Additionally, as the jawbone continues to weaken, it becomes unable to support surrounding teeth, increasing the likelihood of further tooth loss. This cycle can lead to widespread oral health issues if left untreated.
Why Dental Implants Are the Best Solution
Dental implants are widely regarded as the gold standard for replacing missing teeth, particularly when it comes to preventing bone loss. Unlike dentures or bridges, implants function as artificial tooth roots, directly stimulating the jawbone and halting the resorption process.
By maintaining jawbone density, implants also prevent the sunken facial appearance that often accompanies bone loss, preserving a youthful and natural look. They restore functionality, allowing you to chew, speak, and smile with confidence. Implants eliminate the slipping or discomfort often associated with dentures, offering a stable and comfortable alternative.
Moreover, dental implants are incredibly durable. Made from high-quality materials, they can last a lifetime with proper care, making them a cost-effective solution compared to other tooth replacement options that may require frequent maintenance.
The Implant Dentistry Procedure
While the idea of dental implant surgery might seem intimidating, the procedure is highly standardized and offers a high success rate. After a consultation and detailed assessment using advanced imaging technology, the implant is surgically placed into the jawbone. Over several months, the implant fuses with the bone, ensuring stability.
Once healed, a custom-designed crown is attached to the implant, completing the restoration. The result is a replacement tooth that looks, feels, and functions just like your natural teeth.
Why Acting Quickly Matters
Delaying the replacement of missing teeth allows bone degradation to progress, making implant placement more complex or even impossible without additional procedures like bone grafting. Waiting can also lead to increased costs and longer recovery times due to the added complexity of treatment.
Take the First Step Toward a Healthier Smile
Ignoring missing teeth affects more than your appearance—it impacts your oral and overall health. Dental implants provide a lasting solution to prevent bone loss and restore functionality, ensuring you can smile with confidence for years to come.
Don’t wait. Schedule a consultation today and take the first step toward reclaiming your smile and quality of life.
Contact Pence Family Dentistry:
317-842-2337
Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):
9744 Lantern Rd
Fishers, Indiana
46037
