Do you know the possible repercussions of ignoring your missing teeth? If the lost tooth is not in the “smile Zone” some patients do not think it is as important to replace. Any missing tooth can cause damage to your smile, and it is important to seek treatment as soon as possible. Lexington, KY dentist Dr. Doyle Freano wants patients to understand the consequences of ignoring missing teeth.
Missing Teeth
Missing teeth can cause a whole range of dental problems if left untreated. When addressed, Dr. Freano can offer dental restorations to help avoid further damage to your smile. Tooth loss is an advanced dental health concern that can eventually lead to systemic disease.
- Bone Deterioration: Missing teeth, anywhere in your smile, can lead to the deterioration of your bone structure. Without the root structure in place, the bone can begin to deteriorate and may even lead to facial recession. Once your bone structure begins to wear away it can make your face appear sunken in or withdrawn. Repairing bone recession is a complicated procedure, it is best to seek help for missing teeth before bone regression begins to take place.
- Infection: Missing teeth can make you more susceptible to developing gum disease. The open root canal socket can allow bacteria to enter the gums. Gum disease is a complex dental concern that may also affect your overall health. Patients with gum disease are more prone to heart disease, stroke, and heart attack.
- Damage to surrounding teeth: Missing teeth can cause damage to surrounding natural teeth. Without the full support of all your teeth, other teeth can become loose, or even lead to further tooth loss.
Dental Implants
Dental implants can help prevent damage to surrounding teeth, infection and bone deterioration. Dr. Freano utilizes the latest in technique, material, and technology for long lasting and natural looking dental implant restorations for missing teeth.
Dental implants help provide a stable oral foundation for a beautiful and functional smile. Dental implants are a permanent restoration that will be capped with a crown, bridge or denture depending on your oral health, and the number of missing teeth. Dental implants can last a lifetime with proper oral hygiene.