Why is it important to replace missing teeth

Among the many problems and diseases that can occur in our mouths, losing a tooth is often the most traumatic and problematic. Whilst our team at Dazzling Smiles Dental will try our very best to save every tooth we can, certain teeth are not restorable and must be removed.

There are several factors that may contribute to losing a tooth:

1. Decay – When decay or rot progresses within a tooth without being treated, it can drop into the nerve of the tooth. In most cases the tooth can be saved with Root Canal treatment, however sometimes if the decay has progressed too deep within the tooth, it must be removed.
   
   
2. Fracture – Fractures can occur due to decay or trauma. When a fracture occurs it usually means a large portion of the tooth breaks off. In certain cases if the fracture is minimal then the tooth can be saved but most fractures result in the tooth needing extraction.
   
   
3. Infection – If the tooth or gum surrounding a tooth becomes infected removal of the tooth is low cost treatment option. Although removal is not indicated every time, significant gum infection can lead to loose teeth and failed Root canal treatment.
   
   
4. Trauma – Traumatic injuries can often occur when playing sports which can result in loss of a tooth. This is why we recommend that our patients always use mouth guards when playing contact sport.

Whatever the cause, the team at Dazzling Smiles Dentist in Craigieburn recommend that once a tooth is lost, it be replaced as soon as possible and here are the reasons why:

1. Once a tooth is lost, the natural balance of the mouth becomes compromised. This means that other areas of the jaw and adjacent teeth must work extra hard to compensate for less teeth. This can lead to excess strain and wear on the adjacent teeth.
   
   
2. Neighboring teeth can tip or tilt. Once a tooth is lost, there is extra space created in the mouth. When adjacent teeth are not supported they can begin to tilt and tip into the extra space causing problems during eating and creating a crooked smile.
   
   
3. Due to the large space created by losing a tooth, food and bacteria can easily accumulate in the extra space. This food and bacteria can lead to decay in the adjacent teeth and infections within the bone, gums and teeth.
   
   
4. Loss of bone can also result from losing a tooth. Once a tooth is removed, the bone in the area resorbs as it is no longer needed. This results in a thinner gum and creates problems if you choose to replace the tooth in the future. It can also cause your face to have a sunken appearance.
   

To prevent these negative consequences, and to maintain your smile and ability to chew effectively, we highly suggest you replace all missing teeth in your mouth. Dazzling Smiles in Craigieburn specializes in methods to replace your missing teeth. Here are a few options you have:

1. Implant – Implants are a metal screw that is inserted into your jaw to hold a tooth. Implants are a long term stable solution when it comes to replacing teeth. They require regular maintenance and are a high cost option.
   
   
2. Bridge – In certain situations, dental bridges can be used to replace missing teeth. During this procedure, adjacent teeth are prepared to make space for a 3 unit cap so that a fake tooth can be attached to its neighboring teeth.
   
   
3. Dentures – This is the low cost effective method used to replace teeth especially when there are multiple missing teeth in different areas. Dentures are easy to use and maintain and can be taken in and out of the mouth.

If you have missing teeth, then one of the above solutions may be right for you. Give our friendly team at Dazzling Smiles Dental a call on (03) 8339 4253 and we will be more than happy to guide you towards the best solution.

If you have any questions in regards to:

1. Dentures in Craigieburn
2. Implants in Craigieburn
3. Dental Bridges in Craigieburn

Our team can provide obligation free dental consultation to answer any questions you may have.