If you’ve lost one of your back teeth, you may not be in a hurry to replace it. After all, it’s not easily visible. There is more to consider than smile aesthetics, though. As you continue reading, discover why it’s in your best interest to replace a missing back tooth.
The Importance of Your Back Teeth
The back teeth (molars) are the last three teeth on each side of your mouth. They perform the vital job of sustaining great amounts of force from chewing, grinding and the meeting of the upper and lower teeth. Because the molars are larger than the other teeth, they help to digest foods with tougher textures.
Why You Shouldn’t Ignore a Missing Molar
Here are some of the problems you may encounter if you fail to replace a missing molar:
- Accelerated Tooth Wear – When even one tooth is missing, you’re forced to adjust the way you chew food. The load shifting can subject the surrounding teeth to premature wear. Additionally, this can cause pressure to be shifted to the front teeth, which are not designed for chewing.
- Teeth Misalignment – Having a tooth missing for a prolonged period of time leaves a gap in your smile that encourages the surrounding teeth to shift. This can further contribute to misalignment or crookedness, make it difficult to perform dental hygiene and leave you more susceptible to infection.
- Bone Resorption – The longer a tooth is missing from its socket and there is no stimulation from chewing, the greater the potential of bone loss (resorption) around the area. Additionally, bone resorption can cause the mouth to shift and sag, making you appear older.
- TMJ Disorder – Located on either side of the face, the TMJ (temporomandibular joints) act to open, close and rotate the jaw. Prolonged tooth loss that results in bite shifting can cause swelling and inflammation of the TMJ.
Thankfully, there is a way to prevent the above problems. Missing molars can be replaced with dental implants in Lansing.
Dental Implantation Explained
A dental implant is a cylinder-shaped titanium post that is surgically inserted into the underlying jawbone. Acting as a substitute for the original tooth root, it provides the necessary support to prevent jawbone loss and restore your full functionality.
The process starts with visiting a local dentist to make sure you’re eligible for dental implantation and to undergo an oral health assessment. This will also allow you to ask any questions you may have about the implantation process. By taking effective action, you can avoid the potential mishaps associated with prolonged tooth loss and get back to leading a normal and healthy life!
About the Author
Dr. Steven Rodriguez earned his dental degree from the University of Michigan. Throughout a career that has spanned nearly 30 years, he has remained an avid learner, taking several hours of continuing education courses, with a focus on dental implantation. Dr. Rodriguez replaces missing molars with dental implants at Healthy Smiles, and he can be reached for more information or to schedule a visit through his website.