Some people 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 important 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 loosen.
Without the tooth root, the jaw bone pulls back. This changes the dimensions of the face and gives it a sunk-in look due to a decrease 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 Your Time Dental Urgent Care at 813-519-0128 to schedule an appointment.
Contact Your Time Dental Urgent Care:
Locations: (Tap to open in Google Maps):
South Shore – Gibsonton
13145 Kings Lake Drive Ste 105B Gibsonton, FL 33534 Call: 813-519-0128
FishHawk – Lithia
5486 Lithia Pinecrest Rd, Ste B Lithia, FL 33547 Call: 813-519-0128
