If you’ve got a tooth missing, you may not be worried about it if it’s not too noticeable. In fact, you may be wondering, Why is it important to replace missing teeth?
But there are some good reasons why you should replace missing teeth — and we’re going to give you six of these in our latest blog post.
Keep reading to know more about plugging those gaps as well as missing teeth treatment options.
1. It’s great for your confidence
When your smile isn’t as good as it could be, it’s bound to affect your confidence. Noticeable gaps between your teeth may even hold you back from smiling, laughing and interacting with others.
An action as simple as replacing a missing tooth will not only restore your smile but your self-esteem too — and make an amazing difference to how you look and feel.
2. It helps your other teeth
When you have gaps in your mouth, this can have a significant impact on your other teeth.
The gaps can mean that your bite is changed and more pressure is loaded onto the remaining teeth in your mouth, making them more vulnerable to wear and tear, weakening them and even causing them to move position.
3. It’s good for your bone structure
Did you know that missing teeth can lead to a loss of bone structure? The gums and bone in your jaw don’t receive the stimulation they need, and the jaw bone can shrink. This, in turn, causes the gums to pull back.
This phenomenon can mean that your face looks hollow and is more prone to sagging, giving you an appearance that’s older than your biological years.
4. You can eat a more varied diet
It’s very common for people to start skipping foods they would normally enjoy because of their missing teeth — for example, crusty bread or chewy meats.
When you get that gap plugged with a sturdy solution like a bridge or dental implant, you can start enjoying all your favourite foods again without worrying about how you’re going to manage.
5. It’s not as expensive as you think
You may be surprised to find out that a solution for your missing teeth is more affordable than you thought.
Speak to your dentist about the options available — there are plenty of choices to fill gaps in your mouth, from partial modern dentures to dental implants. They’ll be able to help you find the best fit for your mouth and budget!
6. You can find a permanent solution
You may also be pleasantly surprised to learn that many of the options available for missing teeth are permanent.
These include dental implants, crowns and bridges. So if you feel the denture option isn’t right for you, there are plenty of other solutions available. Again, it’s best to talk to your dentist to find out which solution would work best for your unique circumstances.
Get help and advice from your dentist in Te Atatu
Has this article changed your mind about getting that gap fixed? Maybe you’ve realised that it’s not as daunting as you thought!
Why not come and see the team at Opal Dental, your local friendly dentist for the Te Atatu Peninsula and surrounding areas?
We can take a look at your gap and the rest of your teeth and advise on the most appropriate solution for you.
Reach out to us and book that appointment so you’re only a few steps away from restoring that beautiful smile!
