Permanent tooth loss is something no customer desires. Hopefully, this article will address some of our customers’ concerns regarding the consequences of permanent tooth loss and the methods of tooth replacement.
There are several causes of permanent tooth loss, such as:
- Improper oral hygiene leading to dental diseases: cavities, gum inflammation, periodontitis, etc.
- Trauma and significant impacts: accidents, opening bottles with teeth, etc.
- Improper nutrition and inadequate intake of essential nutrients like calcium and potassium.
- Misaligned wisdom teeth, which can affect neighboring teeth and may require extraction.
- Age-related factors.
And many other factors can contribute to tooth loss.
TOOTH LOSS: HOW DOES IT HARM?
1. Impaired chewing function affecting digestion
People with missing teeth experience difficulties in eating due to gaps between their teeth. Food may get stuck, making eating less enjoyable and meals a source of discomfort.
Chewing ability on the opposite tooth is reduced, leading to inadequate food breakdown before reaching the stomach. This can cause indigestion and stomach discomfort, especially when the missing teeth are molars.
2. Jawbone deterioration and receding gums leading to premature facial aging
After tooth loss, the bone surrounding the socket begins to deteriorate due to natural resorption by the body. Over time, this jawbone loss can cause the cheek area to collapse, resulting in sagging facial skin, earlier appearance of wrinkles, and a more aged facial appearance than one’s actual age. Additionally, prolonged jawbone deterioration may cause other teeth to become loose and eventually fall out.
3. Healthy teeth shifting at the site of tooth loss, leading to further tooth loss
Tooth loss not only reduces chewing forces but also causes adjacent teeth to shift abnormally, disrupting the bite alignment. Over time, the teeth on the opposite side may erupt or extrude towards the missing tooth space.
The uneven distribution of chewing forces among the teeth and the lack of support from adjacent teeth can lead to further misalignment of the missing tooth area. This creates gaps between other teeth, making food trapping and oral hygiene difficult, promoting the growth of bacteria, and causing dental issues such as cavities, bad breath, gum inflammation, and periodontitis.
4. Nerve impairment causing temporomandibular joint disorder and headaches
With a missing tooth, the supporting force is lost, causing neighboring teeth to shift randomly. Abnormal chewing forces acting on these neighboring teeth can alter the oscillation range of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), leading to temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD) and resulting in headaches.
5. Incorrect pronunciation and speech impediments affecting communication
Teeth not only play a role in chewing but also significantly contribute to speech articulation. Missing teeth, especially front teeth, can cause difficulty in pronouncing certain sounds, leading to speech impediments.
6. Direct impact on work and daily life
Long-term tooth loss can prematurely age the facial appearance and cause speech impediments, making individuals feel self-conscious during communication and laughter. This, in turn, directly affects their professional and daily lives.
In conclusion, addressing tooth loss is crucial not only for maintaining oral health but also for overall well-being, appearance, and quality of life.
METHODS TO IMPROVE TOOTH LOSS
Currently, there are three most common methods to restore missing teeth: removable dentures, dental bridges, and dental implants.
1. Removable Dentures
What are removable dentures?Hàm tháo lắp là gì?
Removable dentures consist of two main parts: the denture base or frame and the artificial teeth. They also include metal clasps to attach to natural teeth for support.
The denture base or frame is usually made of plastic, titanium, or chrome, while the artificial teeth are made of plastic.
Advantages and disadvantages
Advantages:
- Cost-effective and simple procedure.
- Restores basic chewing function.
- Easy to remove when needed.
Disadvantages:
- Requires regular removal for cleaning.
- Limited chewing ability, loose fit, and difficulty in eating.
- Cannot prevent bone resorption.
- Less aesthetically pleasing and less durable.
- Short lifespan.
2. Dental Bridges
Dental bridges involve placing an artificial tooth (pontic) between two or more healthy teeth adjacent to the missing tooth space. The adjacent teeth must be strong, free from misalignment, and within the range to support the bridge.
Dental bridges are made up of two or more dental crowns covering the supporting teeth and the artificial tooth (pontic) in the middle to replace the missing tooth.
Advantages and disadvantages:
Advantages:
- Quick procedure.
- Ensures chewing function.
- Aesthetically pleasing and longer lifespan compared to removable dentures
Disadvantages:
- Requires grinding down adjacent teeth.
- Cannot prevent bone resorption.
3. Dental Implants
Dental implants, also known as implant-supported crowns, are the most optimal method for tooth restoration. They involve using a titanium implant that is surgically placed into the jawbone and fused with the bone. The implant is then topped with an abutment and a dental crown, creating a natural-looking and functioning tooth.
Advantages and disadvantages:
Advantages:
- Ensures 95% of normal chewing function.
- Easy to clean like natural teeth.
- Highly aesthetic results.
- Preserves adjacent teeth from grinding.
- Prevents bone resorption.
- Lasts over 20 years or a lifetime.
Disadvantages:
- High cost.
- Completion time takes from 3 to 6 months.
If you experience tooth loss, it is essential to seek prompt tooth restoration to avoid serious consequences. Additionally, it can save costs and time for the restoration process.
For any inquiries about tooth restoration methods, you can call the Lê Anh Dental Center hotline: 0251 651 6789 – 0762 79 09 09 for personalized advice from specialized dentists.
Le Anh Dental Clinic – Implant Center – Orthodontics – Aesthetic Porcelain Teeth
Or Inbox: m.me/leanh.dental.clinic
Address: 846 Khu 8, Tan Phu Town, Dong Nai Province
Hotline: 0251.651.6789 – 0762.79.09.09
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