Is it Important to Replace a Missing Tooth?

There are many different ways to lose a tooth. Teeth can be lost because of tooth decay, but accidents and injuries can also result in tooth loss. If you’ve lost a tooth, you may wonder if you need to replace it. Especially if your lost tooth doesn’t show, and your appearance isn’t affected, you might not think it’s necessary. Even if it doesn’t bother you, though, it’s still important to replace a lost tooth.

Why is it important? Because each tooth in the mouth serves a purpose. A missing tooth can cause the other teeth to shift out of place. What’s more, the bone where the tooth used to be can suffer damage. When the right interaction between teeth is not present, bones and gums are not properly stimulated. This can cause the gums to pull back and the jawbone to shrink, which can lead to the loss of more teeth. Missing teeth can make you look older, too, as the face caves and sags around the lost tooth and bone.

There are several different options for replacing a missing tooth:

• Implants are a great solution for missing teeth and can also provide support and stability for partial or complete dentures. Artificial roots and teeth, implants are surgically placed into the upper or lower jaw. Natural-looking teeth are then attached to the implants to enhance or restore a patient’s smile. Dental implants can last for years, though they may need to be re-tightened or replaced occasionally.
• Bridges are a popular option that can be fixed or removable. A fixed bridge has two crowns with one or more replacement teeth in between them. They’re cemented to the teeth next to the lost tooth, which makes them a permanent solution. Removable bridges involve teeth supported by a metal framework or, sometimes, crowns, but they’re not permanently affixed.
• Dentures are a removable solution to replace missing teeth and the tissue surrounding them. Complete dentures are used when all of the teeth are missing, and dentists use partial dentures when one or more of the natural teeth are remaining.

If you’re looking for reliable dental care, look to Belmont Dental Group. At Belmont Dental Group, our team of dentists provides personalized and gentle dental care, backed up by more than 25 years of experience. We believe in open, honest communication, and encourage our patients to ask questions and learn all they can about different treatment options and make informed decisions. Our practice covers all phases of dentistry from teeth cleaning to cosmetic dentistry to emergency care, and we’re committed to helping patients become partners in their own dental health. We always have your best interests in mind and will use our training and technology to benefit you and your family. If you’re looking for quality dental services and personalized care in an atmosphere of trust, call (617) 484-2431 or contact us through our website to learn more.