The importance of replacing missing teeth in Mission Viejo

Tooth loss can be cosmetically devastating. Many people who have lost a front tooth want to replace it as quickly as possible. However, the loss of a back tooth may seem less serious. In reality, every tooth is important, and replacing any that are lost will help preserve your oral and overall health. Dental implants provide a beautiful, healthy, convenient solution that can last a lifetime.

If not replaced, missing teeth can cause or contribute to:

• Malocclusion – When a tooth is lost, remaining teeth tend to shift in the direction of the gap, turning a previously straight smile into a collection of unhealthy, unattractive teeth.
  
  
• Decay – When teeth shift, brushing and flossing becomes a bit more difficult, as some areas are difficult or impossible to reach with floss or a toothbrush. This may seem like a minor inconvenience, but some plaque is likely to linger even if you make an extra effort to remove it. This can lead to cavities, often in areas where you won't even notice them until they become deep enough to cause pain.
  
  
• Gum disease – The accumulation of plaque and bacteria can also lead to infection around the teeth. This is especially likely because the shifting teeth pull away from the gum tissue, making it easier for bacteria to enter. This infection, known as gum disease or periodontal disease, can cause a host of oral health problems including eventual tooth loss if not treated.
  
  
• Bone resorption – Teeth are rooted in the jawbone. You might expect the strain of constantly absorbing pressure from the teeth to cause wear and tear on the bone. Quite the contrary, it stimulates healthy cell regeneration and it keeps the bone tissue strong, much like exercise builds muscle.
  
  

Drs. Alex and Nina Basti, of Mission Viejo, offer dental implants, which are considered the best way to replace missing teeth in most situations. While other restorations can fill the gap in your smile, only dental implants can do so without relying on your other teeth, or your gums, for support. Additionally, no other restorative technique replaces the tooth root and protects your jawbone from resorption. Call 949-427-2096 and schedule a consultation to learn more.