Some individuals who lose a back 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 skip the expense of replacing it? Actually, as the team at Karen E. Williamson DDS in Rockwall explains, there are very good reasons to replace a back tooth with a permanent dental implant.
1. The adjacent tooth (or teeth) may start shifting.
If a tooth tips, moves, or rotates, it can affect 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 recede.
Without the tooth root, the jaw bone recedes. This changes the dimensions of the face and gives it a sunk-in look due to a decline in supporting bone. The vertical shortening advances and becomes more pronounced as you get older.
3. There will be additional stress on the teeth that take over the chewing functions.
This can bring about excessive wear, fracture, or pain.
If you have a missing back tooth and want to learn about dental implants, call Karen E Williamson D.D.S. in Rockwall. We also provide general dentistry. Schedule an appointment with us today.
Contact Karen E Williamson D.D.S., P.A:
469-402-0024
Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):
560 W Ralph Hall Pkwy, Rockwall, TX
Rockwall, Texas
75032
