What is the Problem with Missing Teeth?
Along with four wisdom teeth, the average American adult loses 12 teeth by the time they turn 50. Additionally, roughly 70% of those between 35 to 44 years of age will lost at least one permanent adult tooth. While it is common to lose a tooth, there are more serious concerns beyond just a visible space between the teeth. Missing teeth can have negative consequences on a person’s overall health and the longer they put off replacing the teeth, the odds of additional tooth loss and other issues increase as well.
People who have lost one or more teeth but have delayed getting them replaced, should continue reading to educate themselves on the consequences beyond cosmetic concerns.
Associated Risks of Missing Teeth
- Bone Loss: Much like other areas of the body, the teeth need healthy bones to properly function. A dense jawbone is useful to help keep the teeth anchored firmly in place. Just as the muscles benefit from exercise, the act of chewing food provides stimulation and support for the jawbone. When teeth are lost, bone loss begins in the jawbone because the void created lacks contact with another tooth needed to provide jawbone stimulation. In time, the gap causes the jawbone to further deteriorate and weaken adjacent teeth.
- Higher Chance of Health Problems: Over time, the risk of periodontal disease increases when missing teeth are not replaced. Once a tooth is lost, an open pocket is left that provides bacteria with easy access to the gums. If not treated, the bacteria can cause gum inflammation, periodontal disease, further tooth loss, and additional bone loss. Periodontal disease is especially problematic because it is a contributing factor to serious health issues including heart disease, cancer, diabetes, and Alzheimer’s disease.
- Risk of Additional Tooth Loss Increases: After a tooth is lost, it creates a domino effect that negatively impacts the remaining adjacent teeth. Studies have shown that the odds of additional tooth loss rise by 30% if a lost tooth is not replaced.
- Remaining Teeth May Become Crooked: The surrounding teeth start to shift into the gap left after a tooth is lost. Along with the visible gap, another aesthetically unpleasant byproduct that occurs is that teeth that were once straight, will become crooked as a result.
- Creates Bits Issues or Misalignment: As teeth shift out of place, the way they join together when biting begins to change. Misaligned bites can also lead to habitual grinding of the teeth, known as bruxism, that damages both the jaw and the enamel f the teeth. The repetitive action of bruxism can lead to jaw problems such as tooth sensitivity, tension headaches, and temporomandibular joint disfunction (TMJ).
Clearly, there is more at stake than just cosmetic concerns when teeth are lost. These byproducts negatively affect the person’s overall health while potentially leading to serious, and expensive, dental issues. Because of these issues, it is advisable to make an appointment for treatment with a dental professional sooner rather than later. The dentist will evaluate the situation and recommend the ideal course of action for long-term success.