Some men and women who lose a posterior tooth question whether to replace it. After all, it doesn’t show when you smile and there are other teeth to take over the chewing functions. Why not avert the expense to replace it and save some money? Actually, there are several critical reasons to replace a back tooth with a permanent tooth implant if possible:
1. The adjacent tooth (or teeth) may start shifting.
If a tooth tips, moves or rotates, it can affect the bite. The unopposed tooth can also move, though it generally moves outward from the bone (over-eruption). Teeth that are displaced can become more vulnerable to gum disease, decay, or TMJ pain.
2. The underlying bone will eventually loosen.
Without the tooth root, the jaw bone pulls back. This changes the shape of the face and gives it a sunk-in look due to a reduction in supporting bone. The vertical shortening proceeds and becomes more pronounced as you get older.
3. There will be extra stress on the teeth that take over the chewing functions.
This can bring about excessive wear, fracture, or pain.
If you have a missing posterior tooth and want to learn about dental implants, call Cary Family Dental at 919-371-4428 to schedule an appointment.
Contact Cary Family Dental:
919-371-4428
Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):
915 Kildaire Farm Rd
Cary, North Carolina
27511
