Not many people realise how important it is to get missing teeth replaced. There are cosmetic problems and also functional problems.
If it is a front tooth, this missing tooth has an obvious effect to a persons’ smile and confidence. What about a tooth that is missing at the back of the mouth?
Below are some of the problems that can happen from loss of teeth:
- Super-erupting of opposing teeth (teeth moving up or down into the space created from the missing tooth)
- Compromised and lopsided chewing patterns which can lead to TM joint problems
- Drifting of adjacent teeth into the space of the missing tooth
- Higher risk of cavities and periodontal disease in areas where food gets trapped
- Loss of bone height in the area where the tooth was extracted
- Problems to surrounding teeth due to
- Increased incidence of cheek biting, tongue biting and ulcers.
Below is a diagram which shows the affect of the missing molar on the lower jaw.
1. The upper molar is erupting (moving down) into the space created by the extraction
2 & 6. Effects on bone from the tooth extraction (bone begins to dissolve which is called “resorption”)
3. Tilting of the lower molar into the space created by the extraction
4. Cavities tend to form in these areas because as the tooth tilts it creates “food traps”
5. This creates a periodontal pocket in this area which can lead to disease (it is harder to keep these spaces clean)
A tooth should be replaced as soon as it is lost. This will retain your oral health by preventing bone loss, reducing movement of surrounding teeth and avoiding excess decay.
At Aesthetic Denture Clinic we can discuss a denture treatment plan specialised to you. You may know you are due to have a tooth extracted soon or if you have missing teeth you would like replaced. Refer to our most commonly asked questions if you’re unsure about what dentures would be right for you.
We have many different denture options available and offer a free initial consultation to discuss what our clinic can do for you.
