Some individuals who lose a posterior 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 avoid the cost of replacing it and save some money? Actually, there are several important reasons to replace a back tooth with a dental implant if possible:
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 reduction in supporting bone. The vertical shortening progresses and becomes more pronounced as you get older.
3. There will be extra stress on the teeth that take over the chewing functions.
This can bring about excessive wear, fracture, or pain.
If you have a missing posterior tooth and want to learn about dental implants, call Chattanooga Center for Comprehensive Dentistry to schedule an appointment. We are ready to take charge of your restorative dental care.
Contact Chattanooga Center for Comprehensive Dentistry:
423-756-1540
Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):
830 Cherokee Blvd, Chattanooga, TN
Chattanooga, Tennessee
37405
