Chandler Dentist on the Complexities of Tooth Loss
Missing teeth are usually most noticeable when you smile. To avoid embarrassment, people who have lost one or more teeth often tend to restrain their smiles in the hopes of hiding these gaps from the world. Others, however, may take pride in a lack of vanity and are not troubled by a mere gap in their smiles. lf appearance was the only sacrifice of untreated tooth loss, then simply accepting fate would likely be nobler. Unfortunately, tooth loss concerns much more than vanity. To help you better understand the dangers of missing teeth, Chandler implant dentist Dr. Mark Arooni explains the complexities of tooth loss.
Mourning the Loss of a Tooth
Even if you are unfazed by empty spaces within your smile, you remaining teeth may feel differently, and the proper function of your mouth can suffer all the same if you do not address tooth loss. Biting, chewing, and speaking properly all require your teeth and jaw to align correctly. If they do not align naturally, your jaw will work harder to keep your teeth straight while performing these tasks. If a lost tooth disturbs the delicate balance, the remaining teeth may tend to shift and try to take up the slack. Although this occurs naturally, shifting teeth places your oral health at an increased risk of developing tooth decay, gum disease, and other dental health issues that can lead to further tooth loss.
It’s What’s Underneath that Counts
Aside from the visible part, called the crown, every healthy natural tooth also has a root that extends through your gum tissue and is embedded into your jawbone. The roots are a pathway for your teeth to receive necessary nutrients, but they also promote a healthy jawbone; when you bite or chew, the stimulated roots inform your body that your jaw requires nutrients to support them. Without this stimulation, your jaw receives fewer nutrients, and over time, begins to shrink as it slowly deteriorates. As it grows weaker, your jawbone loses its ability to support remaining teeth, and further tooth loss can occur as a result.
Dental Implants in Chandler
If you suffer from tooth loss, dental implants are the only solution that can restore your tooth’s root as well as the crown. To learn whether dental implants are the right solution for you, schedule an appointment with Dr. Arooni by calling our Chandler dental office at 480-855-1200. Located in the 85224 area, Lakeview Dental Care proudly serves patients from Chandler, Gilbert, Ahwatukee, Mesa, Tempe, Phoenix, and all surrounding communities.
By Mark Arooni DDS
