When you’ve lost a permanent molar, you may not think it’s all that big of a deal. After all, out of sight, out of mind. But the truth is, even though others may not be able to tell you’re missing a back tooth, the toll it can take on your oral and overall health can still be very dangerous. Here’s a closer look at why it’s so important to replace lost teeth, even in the back of the mouth!
Risky Business: The Importance of Replacing Lost Teeth
Following the loss of a front tooth, most people are eager to replace it. That’s because it’s not just noticeable to you, but to anyone who sees you speak or smile. However, with back teeth, people are often less likely to replace them because nobody will see the gaps in their smile, and thus they don’t cause the same embarrassment and self-esteem issues that missing a front tooth might.
Unfortunately, however, just because you can’t see the gap in your arches doesn’t mean you can fool your body. Missing permanent teeth can have many consequences that are dangerous to your oral and overall health, including:
- Jawbone deterioration.
- Difficulty chewing food.
- Malnutrition and indigestion.
- Tooth drift.
- Loose teeth / tooth loss.
- Increased risk of cavities and gum disease.
- Sunken or hollowed appearance to the face.
Solutions for Replacing Lost Teeth
Now that you know how dangerous it can be to not replace missing permanent teeth, you’re probably curious about the best way to restore them. Durable, lifelike dental implants have quickly become the gold standard in tooth replacement. Not only do they fill in the gaps in your arches with a natural looking prosthetic, but they are anchored to the jaw via a permanent post that acts just like the roots of a real tooth. Not only does this make them incredibly stable, but it also provides necessary jawbone stimulation that prevents deterioration and further tooth loss. Dental implants are also easier to care for than dentures. In fact, you can brush them in your mouth, and unlike dental bridges, there’s no limit to how many teeth you can replace, and they don’t require the alteration of healthy abutment teeth to act as anchors!
If you’re missing one or more permanent molars, don’t leave their empty spaces in your arches. Speak to your dentist today about the many incredible benefits of dental implants, and how having a complete smile can improve and protect your oral and overall health.
About Our Practice
At Wright Naeger Dentistry, we want you to enjoy all the wonderful benefits of a healthy smile. If you’re missing permanent teeth, your oral, physical, and mental health could be at risk. Restoring your gorgeous grin with dental implants can help you look and feel your best without the hassle of dealing with temporary restorations. To learn more about dental implants and to see if your smile qualifies for treatment, schedule a consultation with us today by visiting our website or calling 979-776-4843.