Picture of missing tooth on cosmetic dentistry model in Carrollton, Texas
Nobody likes to dwell on tooth loss. However, shocking as it may seem, Americans lose an average of 12 teeth (including wisdom teeth) by age 50. And among adults aged 65 to 74, a staggering 26% have lost all their teeth. That’s potentially one in four people you know!
While this can be concerning, some individuals tend to view tooth loss as an ordinary part of aging and may believe that seeking treatment after extraction is unnecessary. As an experienced dentist, I want to clarify why this perception is incorrect.
Tooth loss can result from several factors: trauma, decay, or overcrowding being the most common. Worldwide, tooth decay takes the lead as the primary reason for tooth removal. Other leading causes include gum disease, broken teeth, impacted teeth, and overcrowded teeth. And did you know, tooth extraction affects different populations differently? As we age, our facial bones continue to change, primarily losing volume, which can drastically alter the shape of our face. A missing tooth or teeth can exacerbate this issue over time.
Continue reading to understand why tooth extraction entails more than “just one less tooth” in your mouth. If you’re facing an extraction or are already dealing with the after-effects of one, give Josey Lane Dentistry, a top-notch dentist in Carrollton, a call today.
The Ripple Effects of Losing a Tooth
At first glance, one missing tooth might not seem consequential. After all, you still have more than two dozen, right?
Not quite.
Tooth and bone loss can significantly alter the shape of your facial structure, shifting your overall appearance and leading to potential side effects. In the United States, about 70% of the population is missing at least one tooth, typically a back tooth. An empty root socket can create space, prompting teeth to shift. These empty sockets also weaken the bone tissue, eventually leading to bone tissue breakdown and erosion.
Losing teeth in early adulthood can drastically alter a person’s face. Facial sagging can cause premature aging, and a shift in self-confidence often accompanies the change in appearance. Noticeable changes in facial structure can start to appear by age 45, often manifesting as sunken cheeks. By 60, cheeks and lips begin to lose their support, contributing to an aging look. If the teeth are not replaced, much of the structural support of the person’s face is lost.
These noticeable changes are primarily driven by bone loss. As the bone diminishes, the subsequent layer of bone begins to reabsorb. The lower part of the face begins to collapse, and the cheeks hollow out. This effect is especially noticeable for people with no teeth.
Apart from changes in the cheeks and lips, other effects of tooth extraction include:
- Skin wrinkling around the mouth
- Distortion of other facial features
- Difficulty speaking
- Poor nutritional intake
- Sinus expansion
Fortunately, these changes in facial shape can be prevented! Dental implants, like those provided by your trusted Carrollton dentist, halt these effects in their tracks. We offer a variety of dental implants tailored to different levels of toothlessness, which we’ll discuss more below.
The Dangers of Teeth Shifting
You might assume that extracting a tooth at the back of your mouth is inconsequential. After all, it’s not visible when you smile. However, every tooth plays an essential role in your oral health.
Malocclusion describes a range of conditions affecting the alignment of your teeth or dental bite. When you fail to replace missing teeth, even back
molars, a serious type of malocclusion can occur. The teeth adjacent to the empty space tend to shift, trying to fill the gap. This results in a partial gap and crooked teeth throughout your mouth, which are difficult to clean and maintain. This shift in your teeth’s alignment can negatively impact your smile and how you chew food.
Malocclusion also affects your bite. When your jaw is closed into a biting position, each tooth should firmly press against another tooth. A tooth without a connection on the opposing jaw will ultimately shift up, down, or forward into an open space. This can lead to severe jaw pain and, in some cases, TMJ.
Tooth Replacement Options from a Dentist in Carrollton
The unpleasant consequences of tooth loss often prompt individuals to explore dental implants or dentures. Dental implants, available at Josey Lane Dentistry, a leading Carrollton dentist, is a solution for almost anyone who has lost teeth; however, eligible patients are usually over 18 years old. Manufactured from titanium, implants bond with the bone during the healing process. The benefits of implants are twofold: they look and function like natural teeth, and their presence helps maintain the structure of the jawbone and face.
Different options include bridges that span the missing tooth. A bridge is made up of two or more dental crowns and a false tooth, cemented to the surrounding natural teeth or dental implant to fill the gap.
Partial or full dentures have a gum-colored plastic base similar to a retainer but with false teeth attached. The base clasps onto your natural teeth and can be easily inserted or removed.
If you have missing teeth or a single missing tooth, it’s crucial to consult with your dentist. At Josey Lane Dentistry in Carrollton, TX, we offer both surgical and non-surgical tooth replacement options. We’ll help you make an informed decision so you can continue to flash a smile you’re proud of. Give us a call if you need an extraction or have had one recently and want to explore tooth replacement options.
As a renowned dentist in Carrollton, our team at Josey Lane Dentistry specializes in comprehensive oral care, including dental implants. Don’t let tooth loss impact your confidence and quality of life. Reach out to us today for professional assistance
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