Our teeth are incredibly important. Without them, our mouths can’t function properly. In fact, missing even one tooth can have devastating effects on our oral health. So, if you’re missing teeth, then you’ll need to know the facts about tooth loss. Luckily, restorative solutions are well within your reach to replace missing teeth.
If you’re living with tooth loss, then it’s time to talk to Dr. Helen Ragsdale at Austin Laser Dentist. Dr. Ragsdale and her compassionate team can help you replace missing teeth to repair your smile and restore your confidence. Don’t wait for a second longer–schedule your appointment now by calling our Austin, TX, office at (512) 346-4690 or by submitting a request here.
In this post, Dr. Ragsdale discusses five facts that everyone should know about missing teeth. You might be surprised how tooth loss can affect all facets of your life.
1. Periodontal Disease is a Primary Cause of Tooth Loss
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), periodontal disease (also called gum disease) is one of the main culprits of tooth loss. Indeed, many dental professionals believe that periodontal disease is largely responsible for the nearly 120 million people missing at least one tooth in America.
2. Missing Teeth Worsen Symptoms of Periodontal Disease
Oral bacteria often infect the gum tissue exposed by missing teeth, which can worsen the symptoms of gum disease. The bacteria begin to multiply and spread, which weakens gum tissue, compromises jawbone health, and leads to further tooth loss.
So, not only does gum disease lead to tooth loss, but tooth loss leads to worsening gum disease. It’s a vicious cycle that is difficult to break. So, if you have gum disease, then seek periodontal treatments immediately. These treatments could make the difference between a healthy smile and missing teeth.
3. Missing Teeth Can Make Employment More Challenging
According to a study conducted by the British Dental Journal, 62% of participants viewed job applicants as less employable if they had a decayed or damaged smile. So, not only does tooth loss affect your oral health, but it complicates your life goals and financial stability, too.
4. Your Teeth Will Shift After Tooth Loss
Our teeth provide structural support for our jawbones, gums, and surrounding teeth. Missing just one tooth can cause our jawbones to deteriorate, our gums to recede, and our teeth to shift in unpredictable patterns. And, this shifting further weakens the structural integrity of otherwise healthy tooth roots, which can result in continued tooth loss.
5. Replacing Missing Teeth Can Improve Your Oral Health
Needless to say, our teeth are integral to the structure and function of our mouths. Without them, a cascade of devastating oral health issues is sure to follow.
So, if you have missing teeth, then it’s crucial to replace them as quickly as possible. From dentures to dental implants, these restorative solutions can protect and improve your oral health after tooth loss.
See How We Can Help You Get a Healthy, Brilliant Smile
Don’t wait for tooth loss to catch up to you. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Ragsdale today to see how we can help you protect and restore your smile.
Send our Austin dental office a convenient message here or call our team at (512) 346-4690 to request your appointment now.
