If you had a front tooth knocked out, you’d likely want to replace it as soon as possible. For those who have lost back teeth, it can be easy to put replacing them on the shelf for later since it’s not as obvious to others. You might feel like replacing a missing molar isn’t that important, but your experts on dental implants in Richmond explain why you shouldn’t put off replacing a missing back tooth.
Why You Should Replace a Missing Back Tooth
Just because a missing back tooth may be out of sight, it shouldn’t remain out of mind. Here are the primary reasons why replacing a missing back tooth as soon as possible is crucial to maintaining oral health:
Your Surrounding Teeth Will Eventually Be Affected
It might take a bit of time, but when a tooth is lost and the space is empty for an extended period of time, the surrounding teeth will eventually be affected. They will actually begin to shift in order to fill the missing space, which can lead to further misalignment in your mouth and will negatively affect your whole smile.
You Will Be at a Greater Risk of Infection
Your gums and teeth work together to keep one another healthy. Your gums not only hold your teeth in place, but they protect against the infiltration of bacteria into the soft tissue. When a missing tooth leaves an opening, bacteria can more easily get into the tissue and lead to gum disease.
Oral Functionality Will Become An Issue
Aesthetically, your smile might not look different at first if you lose a back tooth, but you’ll likely notice that speaking and chewing will become more difficult. You might have a mouth full of teeth, but you’d be very surprised at the difference a missing one can make.
If you’re in need of a tooth replacement, your dentist can talk to you about the option of dental implants to keep your smile healthy for the long haul.
About the Practice
The team of dental experts at Brown, Reynolds, Snow, and LeNoir Dentistry understands the importance of replacing missing teeth when it comes to overall oral health. For years, they have been giving patients the gift of transformed smiles and renewed oral functionality through dental implant treatment. Their combined skills and expertise make them the best choice for your restorative dental procedure in Richmond. Don’t wait to replace a missing tooth. Request a consultation online or call (804) 288-5324, and our team can help you find the location nearest to you.