Missing a tooth can mean so much more than simply a gap in your smile. Your neighbouring teeth, gums and even jaw bone could come under a lot of stress. Here at Harwood Dental in Bolton, we strongly advise on dental implants if you are missing one or more teeth, because otherwise you may notice some changes in your mouth’s health.

Your jaw bone

Your teeth are all connected to your jawbone via their individual tooth roots. The roots and your jawbone enjoy a synchronous relationship as your roots will tell your jaw that the tooth is still present and therefore in need of its continued support, so the two can stay strong for each other. However, when you lose a tooth your root dies, and the jaw stops receiving these signals.  This then leads to that area of the bone becoming weak through a process called bone resorption. This may affect the stability of your tooth roots in your neighbouring teeth, but it can also impede your ability to receive dental implants in the future. Bone resorption also causes a loss of facial structure. Replacing the missing teeth with dental implants will help keep the bone strong because of the titanium screw used as an artificial root invites the bone to heal around it.

Your gums

One of the most common causes of adult tooth loss is a gum disease, which occurs when bacteria and plaque inflame the gum tissue and cause it to recede from the base of the teeth. Losing teeth exposes your gums to further food debris and bacteria leaving the area vulnerable. This will of course lead to the worsening of any symptoms of gum disease already present, especially concerning the stability of the teeth neighbouring the gap. Replacing missing teeth with dental implants to cover over this area of newly exposed hum tissue, reducing the surface area and protecting a fairly sensitive part of your mouth.

Your neighbouring teeth

Your teeth are more opportunistic than you’d think, and if there is a new gap in your smile then the neighbouring teeth may wonder into this area. Misaligned teeth after losing a tooth is very common, because your teeth either side of the gap may drift and cause a variety of different problems. Through their new position, they can create uneven surfaces that are difficult to clean and thus lead to the onset of cavities, decay and gum disease. They can also cause issues with your bite when eating or speaking.

Dental implants in Bolton

If you’re considering dental implants in Bolton, get in touch with us here at Harwood Dental Care today. We can help with the transformation of your form, function and feel of your mouth with reliable and sturdy tooth replacement.