Some people who lose a posterior tooth question whether to replace it. After all, it doesn’t show when you smile and there are other teeth to take over the chewing functions. Why not avoid the cost to replace it and save some money? Actually, there are several important reasons to replace a back tooth with a permanent dental implant if possible:
1. The adjacent tooth (or teeth) may start shifting.
If a tooth tips, moves or rotates, it can impact the bite. The unopposed tooth can also move, though it generally moves outward from the bone (over-eruption). Teeth that are displaced can become more vulnerable to gum disease, decay, or TMJ pain.
2. The underlying bone will eventually loosen.
Without the tooth root, the jaw bone shrinks. This changes the contours of the face and gives it a sunk-in look due to a decline in supporting bone. The vertical shortening advances and becomes more pronounced as you get older.
3. There will be additional stress on the teeth that take over the chewing functions.
This can bring about excessive wear, fracture, or pain.
If you have a missing posterior tooth and want to learn about dental implants, call Oceanside Dental Excellence at 760-439-3400 to schedule an appointment.
Contact Oceanside Dental Excellence:
760-439-3400
Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):
3762 Mission Ave Ste 104
Oceanside, California
92058
