If you're living with a missing tooth, you know it impacts your life in several ways. Considering tooth replacement is a big decision, and you probably have many questions.
A few common questions my colleagues and I hear about missing teeth and tooth replacement are: Is it bad to have a missing tooth? What happens if you don't replace it? Do I really need to replace a tooth that no one sees?
These are all great questions. So, today we'll discuss what happens if you don't replace a missing tooth, and how my team and I can help you make the best decisions for your smile.
Why Missing Tooth Replacement in Prairieville, LA, Is Important
When most people think about how a missing tooth impacts their smile, they tend to focus on the aesthetic aspects. However, several oral health factors go along with missing teeth that you may not have considered.
When you lose a tooth, you also lose its root. This may not seem like a big deal since it's beneath your gums; however, it can have a significant impact on your bone. Tooth roots keep your jawbone healthy and stimulated. Without them, the bone begins to deteriorate, which can impact neighboring teeth. Bone loss can also affect facial appearance, causing a sunken look that can make you appear older than you are.
When you don't replace a missing tooth, your surrounding teeth will start to shift and move into the open space left by your missing tooth. This causes bite misalignment, puts your teeth at risk for damage, and makes them more susceptible to developing problems like gum disease and tooth decay.
Tooth Replacement Options in Prairieville, LA
My team and I offer several tooth replacement options, including dentures, dental bridges, and dental implants. But I want to focus on dental implants in Prairieville, LA, because they are the only option that replaces your tooth and root, making them the gold standard.
Our team can guide you through the process of getting a dental implant from start to finish. The first step is scheduling an evaluation with one of our other dentists or me so we can review your options with you. Contact Palm Family Dentistry at (225) 622-2545 for more information about restorative dentistry in Prairieville, LA.