Consequences of Not Replacing a Missing Tooth

When we think of one or more missing teeth the esthetic problem that this entails comes to mind. However, the consequences go far beyond that. Missing teeth must always be replaced as soon as possible with dental implants in Tampa Bay. Failure to do so can have severe consequences. Let’s take a look at them so we can better understand the importance of dental implants.  

Chewing Difficulties 

Remember that the lack of a tooth means difficulties during chewing. The food impacts the gum in the gap that the tooth has left free, causing some discomfort and even damaging the mucosa. Chewing difficulties can negatively affect the swallowing process: not crushing food properly has a direct impact on suffering from heavy digestion. 

Occlusion Problems 

The existence of an empty space implies the mobilization of the adjacent pieces toward it, becoming inclined and generating occlusion problems. In addition, this alteration in the dental position generates undue contact while chewing, generating masticatory overloads that have repercussions on our oral health. 

Increased Incidence of Caries and Periodontal Disease 

This search for contact and the decrease in the amount of bone means, in turn, larger interdental spaces. This can have a direct impact on poorer access to oral hygiene. This factor has a direct impact on the development of dental caries or periodontal diseases. 

Speech Problems 

The pronunciation of letters and words is reinforced by the teeth. If a key tooth is missing, we may have trouble pronouncing sounds correctly. 

The most pronounced consequences will be perceived in the phonemes that for their correct pronunciation require the contact of the lower lip with the teeth of the upper arch -for example, the sound “ef” in “family”- or the interdental phonemes -sound “th” in “thumb”, for example. 

Looking for Dental Implants in Tampa Bay? 

Our recommendation is that if you lose a tooth, you should replaced it as soon as possible with a dental implant to reduce possible problems in the future. If this is your case, do not hesitate to contact us here at Lake Park Dental and we will assist you.