5 Surprising Problems Caused by Missing Teeth

Missing teeth are often ignored, particularly if only one or two teeth are missing at the back or side of the mouth. Some people assume that if the empty space can’t be seen, it’s not an issue, and their other teeth will do a good enough job, so replacing missing ones isn’t important. Sadly, this isn’t true. If you have even a single missing tooth, you need to consider dental implants. Our Waltham oral surgeons can collaborate with your dentist to restore your teeth before more significant problems arise, including the serious issues outlined below.

Problem #1 – Jawbone Loss and Facial Changes

Did you know that the root of a tooth does more than hold your tooth in place? It also stimulates bone growth and preservation of the jawbone. When you lose a tooth, the jawbone isn’t stimulated, and the socket begins to deteriorate. Over time, the jaw loses bone density and no longer supports the cheeks properly. You eventually develop a sunken appearance that can dramatically age you.

Problem #2 – Shifting Teeth and Bite Misalignment

When there is an empty space where a tooth is missing, the remaining teeth naturally gravitate toward this space to fill it in. The shifting teeth move out of their proper positions. They may no longer meet properly or may twist or tilt, which can affect their alignment. Improper alignment can cause jaw pain and headaches.

Problem #3 – Difficulty Eating and Digestive Issues

With fewer teeth, it can be difficult to properly tear and chew your food. Multiple missing teeth may lead to swallowing food without thoroughly chewing, which can cause digestive issues such as bloating, indigestion, and acid reflux. You may also have to forego fibrous, chewy, or hard foods because you can’t chew them comfortably. Giving up foods you love is certainly an unpleasant side effect of missing teeth.

Problem #4 – Speech Difficulties

Missing teeth interfere with the movements of the lips and tongue during speech, altering airflow and resonance, and making it difficult for the mouth to form specific sounds. This can lead to difficulty speaking clearly, lisping, whistling, and slurring of words. Gaps in the teeth can have a particularly detrimental effect on specific sounds, including the letters S, Sh, Z, F, and V.

Problem #5 – Increased Risk of Gum Disease and Decay

There is a two-fold risk of increased dental health problems if you have missing teeth. When teeth shift out of alignment due to gaps, they can overlap. This makes it difficult to brush and floss properly, which can contribute to cavities. The empty tooth sockets become breeding grounds for bacteria and harbor food debris, which can lead to inflamed gums, bacterial infections, and gum disease.

Why Choose Highland Oral Surgery & Implant Center to Replace Missing Teeth

It is clear that replacing missing teeth is essential to protect your oral health and prevent a variety of problems that can be unpleasant and costly in the future. Seeing an oral surgeon near Lexington, Waltham, or Newton can help you determine the best way to restore your teeth. At Highland Oral Surgery & Implant Center, we perform dental implants in our Waltham office every day for patients missing anywhere from a single tooth to all of their teeth.

Dr. Bishop is a diplomate of the American Board of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery, a distinction earned by few oral surgeons of the highest caliber. It is a guarantee of their training and expertise, as well as their excellent doctor-patient relationships.

To schedule a consultation and learn more about how dental implants can address the issues outlined above while enhancing your quality of life, please get in touch with Highland Oral Surgery & Implant Center at Highland Oral Surgery & Implant Center Phone Number 781-899-5660.