Tooth loss can be detrimental to a person's health. Drs. Robert Boff and Banafsheh Goujani of Ramsey Family Dental in Ramsey, NJ provide information and treatment options to help inform and rectify this problem.
What's the problem with losing a tooth or several teeth?
If you don't replace a missing tooth, adjacent teeth gradually shift to close the gap left by the missing tooth. Shifting teeth are problematic because they create more gaps between teeth that easily trap food, making it difficult to keep clean, which allows bacteria to fester. Bacteria produce acid that cause cavities in teeth and gum disease. If you continue avoiding the problem, you may end up with severe gum disease that may affect your overall health, and difficulty chewing, biting and speaking because tooth alignment is off.
Other issues that result from a missing tooth is more tooth loss. Teeth in the opposing jaw start separating from their socket because they no longer have their former point of contact. The gum tissue recedes, which leads to greater sensitivity and a loss of sturdiness. Eventually, teeth fall out. This puts more strain on remaining teeth that results in premature wear.
Tooth loss also results in reduced bone density. Your jawbone begins to recede and you end up with minimal facial support, premature aging and sagging because of the loss of bone structure.
What causes tooth loss?
- Poor hygiene, like not brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing daily
- Smoking and chewing tobacco
- Poor nutrition like a lack of calcium, vitamin D, phosphorus, potassium and vitamin C
- Autoimmune diseases (like diabetes)
How to treat missing teeth?
Your Ramsey dentist offers several treatment options, like dental implants. Dental implants look, feel, and function like natural. They have more than a 90% success rate and restore several functions including bite, chewing, and speech. Dental implants also prevent further tooth loss and loss in bone density to maintain the integrity of your facial structure.
Do you need a consultation?
Drs. Robert Boff and Banafsheh Goujani of Ramsey Family Dental in Ramsey, NJ, can help, so make sure you contact them at (201) 327-3060 today!