Here’s a worrying dental statistic: an alarming 90 per cent of adults in Australia have tooth decay to varying degrees. At least 15.5 per cent have fewer than 21 permanent teeth, the full set of permanent teeth required is 32. And this is a problem, especially if these patients do not see the urgency in seeking alternative teeth replacement solutions.
The most common disadvantage people usually associate with missing teeth is that it contributes to an unattractive smile. And while having the ability to smile a confident smile is critical to mental wellbeing, there are other equally serious consequences that can impact dental and physical health. Missing teeth can, down the line, lead to more invasive dental procedures, more money spent on dental treatments and more time spent in the dental chair. Due haste in opting for missing teeth solutions like dental implants Melbourne can help avoid these unwarranted frustrations. Replacement tooth implants have become the industry’s go-to dental solution, as the treatment plan involves the surgical placing of a screw-like rod into the jawbone and having a crown sit on top to function like that of a natural tooth. It is possible with a tooth implant for an experienced implant dentist to provide a patient with same day teeth.
Adverse consequences of missing teeth
The following consequences are really good reasons not to ignore missing teeth.
Risk of tooth decay and infection
Even a single tooth lost opens the mouth up to many problems, one of which is the risk of infection to gums and neighbouring teeth. The problem with gaps in between teeth is that these spaces are an open invitation to bad bacteria to creep in. But it is not just gum health that is in danger from the invasion of germs, bacteria can also reach vulnerable roots of teeth nearby, increasing the risk of tooth loss.
Speech impediments
A full set of teeth makes it possible for the clear phonation of sounds. When a tooth is lost (depending where it sat in the dental arch), this can affect the way a person enunciates certain sounds resulting in some words coming out distorted.
The ability to eat is affected
Efficient and proper chewing requires a full set of teeth. A single missing tooth can interfere with masticatory function which then places a question mark on effective digestion and nutrient absorption.
Loss of jawbone density
Very few people draw a direct relationship between missing teeth and jawbone deterioration, yet this is one of the major disadvantages of losing teeth. Jawbone health is protected by the stimulation provided by teeth roots. When these roots are lost, the jawbone can stop growing and bone reabsorption can occur. This results in loss of jawbone which has a damaging effect on dental health (more tooth loss) and facial structure (face can take on a shrunken look).
All dental practitioners agree that missing teeth are a dental problem that should be addressed as soon as possible. There are many dental devices that may be available to a patient, so a consultation is the best way to decide which is the right one.
Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
