Why should I replace my missing teeth?
It is common for adults to lose one or more teeth at some point in their lives, whether due to an accident, neglect, decay, or deterioration due to old age. Having one or more missing teeth can have a negative impact on your appearance, self-confidence, and dental health.
Your appearance and confidence can be affected
If you are missing one or more teeth you may be reluctant to smile, laugh or even talk in social or business situations. Poorly-fitting dentures may lead people to avoid eating in front of others. People who are missing one or more teeth may feel as though they have lost part of themselves, or are getting older.
Dentures provide a set of artificial teeth to restore your smile, but may not help restore your self-confidence. They may move, slip, or fall out completely when a patient is playing sports, talking, or eating.
Your health
Your teeth do more than enable you to chew. They also function to keep your gums, jawbones, and other teeth healthy. Missing teeth can have a negative impact on your overall dental health.
When a tooth is missing, the opposing tooth will over-erupt, which may lead to changes in your bite. Adjacent teeth can tilt or drift into the site of the missing tooth or teeth. Also, spaces where a tooth or many teeth are missing can trap food.
When a tooth is lost, the surrounding bone will resorb. More bone is lost the longer the tooth is missing, and the jawbone will noticeably shrink over time.
It can become harder to chew food when teeth are missing. If you wear dentures you may not be able to eat certain foods that you were able to eat with your natural teeth.