The Importance of Replacing Missing Teeth

A missing tooth can be a source of embarrassment for many, but it's essential to understand that the implications extend far beyond just the visible part of the tooth. When a tooth is lost, the root is also missing, which can lead to further complications over time. Therefore, it's crucial to consider both the aesthetic and health aspects of dental restoration.

Dr. Charley Chaney, who has years of experience in dentistry at Fayette Dental Group in Fayetteville, Georgia, emphasizes the importance of promptly addressing missing teeth. If you have one or more missing teeth, it is advisable to schedule an appointment with us to discuss your options and prevent potential future issues.

Missing teeth and your oral health

Teeth play an important role in both smiling and chewing, functioning collectively as an integral unit within the mouth. Each tooth contributes to a complex structure that provides stability for the remaining teeth. Consequently, the loss of a single tooth can jeopardize this foundation.

When a tooth is lost, the adjacent teeth may begin to shift into the resulting gap. This misalignment can lead to uneven or excessive wear on the remaining teeth. Additionally, it may trigger issues with the jaw joint, commonly referred to as TMJ (temporomandibular joint disorder), which can manifest as headaches and jaw pain.

Furthermore, having gaps or uneven teeth can heighten the risk of developing gum disease, as these irregularities create more areas for bacteria to accumulate. Maintaining the integrity of your dental structure is essential for overall oral health.

The negative effects of bone loss

Teeth are foundational not only above the gum line but also below it. The unseen part of a tooth is the root, which constitutes about two-thirds of the tooth’s structure and extends deep into the jawbone, anchoring the tooth in place.

Interestingly, our bones are constantly remodeled throughout our lives, where old bone is reabsorbed and new bone is formed as needed. In the mouth, the tooth root plays a crucial role in this process by stimulating the production of jawbone. However, when a tooth is lost, the body begins to reabsorb the bone in that area, leading to potential complications in oral health.

Signs of bone loss in your jaw include:

Changes in facial appearance
Changes to your bite structure
Loose or shifting teeth
Pain while chewing
Difficulty speaking
Jaw or facial pain
Headaches
Lips that turn inward
Wrinkles around the mouth

Loss of jawbone can lead to additional tooth loss and complicate replacement, requiring more extensive options like bone grafting.

How can I replace missing teeth?

Dr. Chaney can explain the many ways to replace missing teeth. After a comprehensive evaluation, he shares the facts about each method and which are best for replacing one or multiple teeth.

At Fayette Dental Group, we can replace missing teeth by:

Each dental treatment has its own advantages, and Dr. Chaney will guide you through your options after a thorough dental exam.

Don’t wait to replace your missing tooth or teeth. Contact Fayette Dental Group at 770-683-2000, or request an appointment online to discuss teeth replacement options in Fayetteville and Fayette County, Georgia.