A missing tooth might only look like a tiny gap, but it can lead to severe issues over the course of time. From teeth shifting to jawbone loss, the effect goes beyond looks.
Most individuals are looking to dental implants in Dearborn, as they offer a durable, natural-appearance solution to restore one’s smile as well as ensure long-term oral health.
What Can a Dentist Near You Do for a Missing Tooth?
If you’ve lost a tooth, visiting a dentist near you is the first thing to do. A dentist can assess the space, examine nearby teeth, and suggest alternatives such as implants, bridges, or partial dentures.
Why this step is crucial:
- Prevents surrounding teeth from shifting into the vacant space.
- Decreases the chances of bite issues and jaw pain.
- Help improve chewing and speech
How Long Can You Go With a Missing Tooth Before Problems Start?
Most people wonder, how long can you go with a missing tooth without it being an issue? The reality is, things start to happen within weeks, as teeth begin to move into the space, and gums will begin to shrink.
Bone loss in the jaw starts over time, making it more difficult to replace the tooth down the road.
You may face some problems, such as:
- Food being stuck in the teeth.
- Chewing some food seems difficult.
- Other teeth bear uneven wear.
How Long Can You Go With a Missing Tooth Without It Being Treated?
The second question that people often ask is, how long can you go with a missing tooth before you need to get it treated? Although each individual is unique, most dentists say that you should replace it as early as possible. Delaying too long can:
- Make the replacement more complex.
- Lead to misalignment and bite changes.
- It may cause gum disease or decay to the adjacent teeth.
A golden tip is to act early to not only protect your smile but also save money in the long run by avoiding more complex treatments.
What Are the Effects of Not Replacing a Tooth?
Not receiving proper treatment for a lost tooth can have effects beyond how you look. It also affects your health and self-esteem.
Consequences include:
- Jawbone shrinkage (making your face look older).
- Speech problems.
- Extra stress on remaining teeth, leading to cracks or wear.
- An increased risk of TMJ (jaw joint) pain.
Don’t Wait to Protect Your Smile
A gap tooth is not necessarily something that appears right away as a big deal, but the longer you delay the replacement, the more harm is done.
From teeth becoming crooked to losing bone structure, the damage can be permanent. Filling the gap early on keeps your mouth in tip-top health and shape.
Call Royal Dentistry today to see what alternatives are available and get started on regaining your confidence.
FAQs About Missing Teeth
How soon should I replace a missing tooth?
Dentists say that you should get a new tooth as quickly as possible if you lose one. If you wait too long, your teeth will move and you will lose bone.
What happens if I don’t replace my tooth?
Without replacement, you might face certain problems, like bite problems, jawbone shrinkage, and higher risks of decay or gum disease in surrounding teeth.
Are dental implants the best option for missing teeth?
For most patients, implants are the most durable and natural-looking solution. However, a dentist would suggest the right choice for you based on what your needs are.
Can missing teeth affect my overall health?
Yes, not having teeth can make it hard to chew food and even talk. They can also make you less confident and put more stress on your jaw.