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 cost to replace it and save some money? Actually, there are several vital reasons to replace a back tooth with a permanent dental implant if possible:
1. The adjacent tooth (or teeth) may start shifting.
If a tooth tips, moves or rotates, it can influence 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 pull back.
Without the tooth root, the jaw bone recedes. This changes the dimensions of the face and gives it a sunk-in look due to a reduction in supporting bone. The vertical shortening progresses and becomes more pronounced as you get older.
3. There will be extra stress on the teeth that take over the chewing functions.
This can result in excessive wear, fracture, or pain.
If you have a missing posterior tooth and want to learn about dental implants, call Montz and Maher Dental Group at 832-895-5120 to schedule an appointment.
Contact Montz and Maher Dental Group:
832-895-5120
Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):
820 S Friendswood Ste 100
Friendswood, Texas
77546