How Missing Teeth Can Impact Your Health

Posted on: 1 February 2023

Even if you have only one missing tooth, it can negatively impact both your oral health and your overall general health. There are a number of various treatment options dentists can recommend so that you do not develop complications from missing teeth. One of the most effective treatment options for missing teeth is dental implants. Here are some ways dental implants can prevent complications from developing as a result of missing teeth.

Prevents Teeth Shifting Out Of Place

If you have missing teeth, your other teeth may begin to shift or drift out of place over time. Shifting can cause pain because it can lead to overcrowding of your teeth. Sometimes, overcrowded teeth can be so extreme that the teeth actually overlap. This can cause dental decay and gum disease because when your teeth are too close together, you may be unable to brush them effectively.

Flossing may be difficult too because the spaces in between your teeth may not be wide enough for you to wiggle a strand of dental floss in between them. Not only can this cause cavities and gingivitis, but it may also lead to a flossing injury. If the spaces between your teeth are too tight, you may try forcing the floss in, cutting your gums. Dental implants help prevent your teeth from shifting so that this does not happen.

Choking Risk And Digestion Problems

If you have missing teeth, you may be unable to effectively chew your food, forcing you to swallow it while still in big pieces. This can lead to choking and aspiration. While everyone with missing teeth is at risk for choking, the risk may be especially high for people with preexisting swallowing conditions caused by stroke, traumatic brain injuries, or Parkinson's disease. Dentists may recommend dental implants to not only prevent choking risks but to also aid in digestion.

Your food can be digested more easily when it is chewed well, which is especially important for those suffering from gastrointestinal problems. In addition to choking risk, missing teeth can also negatively change your facial appearance by causing a "sunken in" look. Dental implants can greatly enhance both your smile and your facial appearance. 

If you have missing teeth, make an appointment with your dentist to learn more about the benefits of getting dental implants. Because dental implants are considered a permanent solution to missing teeth, you can enjoy their benefits for decades to come.

For more information, contact a dentist.

Share

Stopping Tooth Decay Before It Ruins Lives

After a numerous visits to the dentist to fix my cavities, I am proud to say that I'm officially tooth decay free. I used to be a slacker when it came to brushing and flossing my teeth. But after almost losing my teeth to bad cavities and a major gum disease scare, I changed my oral hygiene habits for good. I now feel better about my appearance because I pay more attention to my dental care. I even make it to my dental appointments without numerous reminders from my dentist. If you have bad cavities and fear losing your teeth, read through my blog. It'll give you valuable tips to help you stay cavity-free.