Losing teeth can change your life in ways you may not expect. Leaving gaps in your smile can alter your appearance, day-to-day freedom, and health.
Learn about all the ways tooth loss can affect your life.
1
Loss of functionality.
When you lose teeth, your life can start to change. You may not be able to eat your favorite foods anymore, and your speech can become slurred.
Dental implants can enable you to live your life without restriction.
2
Increased risk of oral infection.
Teeth protect your gums and nerves that lead into your body. When left exposed, you may be at greater risk for infections and oral disease. A gap in your smile can lead to more of your teeth becoming infected.
Implants protect your oral health, so you don’t have to risk losing more teeth.
3
Weakening of the jawbone.
On a daily basis, your teeth keep your jaw strong as you chew food and speak. When you’re missing a tooth, your jaw no longer receives signals and begins to weaken. Even if you’re only missing one tooth, your jaw can become softer.
A dental implant replicates the structure and function of a natural tooth to keep your jaw strong.
4
Premature wrinkling.
If your jawbone starts to grow softer, the skin it once supported can begin to pull away from your face. This results in premature wrinkles than can make you look older.
Implants keep your jaw strong, which means your skin won’t sag.
5
Reduced self-confidence.
Changes in your appearance and capabilities can start to make you feel less like yourself. You may become hesitant to smile due to a gap and spend less time with your friends and loved ones.
A dental implant looks and feels like a natural tooth, so your smile will look perfectly new.
6
Increased likelihood of pain.
Your gums and nerves being exposed can mean increased sensitivity to hot and cold temperature food or beverages. Infections can also cause pain and make your life more difficult.
Implants protect the sensitive areas of your mouth.
7
Anxiety and unhappiness.
Losing teeth can turn your life upside down, both in the moment and for years after. Changes to your appearance and health can affect how you feel. Tooth loss has been linked with depression and anxiety in studies.
Your smile and abilities can be revitalized with dental implants.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most common cause of tooth loss in adults?
The most common cause of tooth loss in adults is gum disease, also known as periodontal disease. Luckily, if you maintain a good oral hygiene routine by brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing daily, you can avoid developing gum disease.
In addition to good oral hygiene habits, you’ll want to schedule regular exams and cleanings with Dr. Alfano. During these visits, he’ll assess your oral health and ensure your teeth and gums are in pristine condition. He’ll also notify you of any areas of concern so we can perform any necessary treatments before they require more invasive procedures.
How do you prevent bone loss after tooth extractions?
The best way to prevent bone loss after you’ve had a tooth extraction is to immediately seek out a high-quality tooth replacement. Dr. Alfano typically recommends dental implants because they’re the most dependable, long-lasting restoration for missing teeth.
Our titanium implants fuse with your jawbone, strengthening your jaw and acting as a natural tooth root. Dental implants will stabilize and help maintain bone around the area of your missing tooth, so your smile can stay beautiful for years to come.