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 avert the cost to replace it and save some money? Actually, there are several essential 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 influence 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 pull back.
Without the tooth root, the jaw bone shrinks. This changes the shape of the face and gives it a sunk-in look due to a decrease in supporting bone. The vertical shortening advances 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 result in excessive wear, fracture, or pain.
If you have a missing posterior tooth and want to learn about dental implants, call David A. Rice, DDS at 847-741-2353 to schedule an appointment.
Contact David A. Rice, DDS:
847-741-2353
Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):
1972 Larkin Ave Ste 1
Elgin, Illinois
60123