Is Losing a Tooth That Bad?

When you lose a tooth, the most obvious effect is the aesthetic since the way you look affects the way you feel. However, there are less apparent issues associated with tooth loss, specifically in the area of the missing tooth. In truth, it’s more about the bone surrounding the area rather than the tooth itself.

The alveolar (sac-like) bone which supports teeth, the required stimulation derives from the teeth themselves. Teeth make hundreds of brief and transient contacts with each other throughout each day. These minor stresses are transmitted through the periodontal ligament which suspends and connects each tooth in its socket.

When a tooth is lost, it results in a substantial decrease of stimulation that leads to loss of alveolar bone. In the first year after tooth loss, there is a 25% decrease in the width of that bone and a 4 millimeter decrease in height over the next couple of years. As the bone loses width and height continuously, gum tissue gradually decreases as well.

Once the alveolar bone is lost, the bone beneath – called the basal bone – also starts to deteriorate. In addition, the distance from the nose to the chin decreases, resulting in the lower third of the face to partially collapse. With no support for having a lost tooth, the cheeks can become hollow, making a person more prone to jack fractures.

How Austell Dental Associates Can Help

Clearly, a missing tooth is associated with serious negative consequences. Our Austell dentists are capable of helping you maintain a healthy smile. We offer dental implants to help slow the shrinking of bone and gum tissue, which typically last over 15 years.

If you are interested cosmetic dentistry or tooth implants in Georgia, schedule an appointment with our dentist at Austell Dental Associates today.