How Missing Teeth Affect Aesthetics: The Effects of Prolonged Bone Resorption

How Missing Teeth Affect Aesthetics: The Effects of Prolonged Bone Resorption

Tooth decay, gum disease, and injury are common causes for missing teeth. Although losing a single tooth may seem like nothing to fret over, in truth this is far from the case. Regardless of the number of teeth missing throughout the smile, their absence will have numerous effects on both the health, function, and beauty of your aesthetics.

Below are a few of the many reasons why Dr. Snehal Petal educates his patients on the effects missing teeth have on your overall health and appearance as well as the importance of replacing them.

Bones Loss and Resorption: Significantly Affecting Facial Aesthetics

The jaw bone shrinks in a process of calcium re-integration, called bone resorption. This is accelerated in those with missing teeth. The tooth root serves many vital functions, one of which is stimulating the jaw bone to remain full and healthy.

Without normal jaw bone density, the facial structure can appear distorted. The chin can appear weakened, leading to a less impressive appearance. In advanced cases, the missing teeth contribute to a total collapsed appearance of the face. Without teeth to rest against, the lips will purse. These factors combined create an aged appearance to the face.

Missing Teeth: Disrupting Daily Life and Function

Without teeth, tasks such as eating and speaking are made more difficult. Chewing is the first step in the digestion process. Improper chewing can lead to indigestion, constipation, or nausea. The body can’t absorb all the nutrients from foods that aren’t properly chewed. >

Prevention: Options for Replacement

The best option for replacing missing teeth is dental implants. They replace both the visible part of the tooth as well as the root beneath. Dental implants prevent further bone resorption and help the face remain functional and youthful in appearance. Once inserted, dental implants permanently replace missing teeth. If more teeth are lost, dental implants can support dentures. These devices anchor the dentures to the gums and ensure their security while eating and speaking.

Contact us for more information regarding missing tooth replacement, feel free to contact Lorton Springfield Dental Implant & Oral Surgery. We specialize in this aspect of dentistry.