Some men and women 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 avert the expense to replace it and save some money? Actually, there are several important reasons to replace a back tooth with a tooth 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 pulls back. This changes the shape of the face and gives it a sunk-in look due to a decrease in supporting bone. The vertical shortening progresses and becomes more pronounced as you get older.
3. There will be increased 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 Dental Care Today PC – E. Dale Behner DDS at 317-842-2337 to schedule an appointment.
Contact Dental Care Today PC – E. Dale Behner DDS:
317-842-2337
Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):
9744 Lantern Rd
Fishers, Indiana
46037
