For a middle-aged person, the experience of missing a tooth is common. Interestingly, extensive decay and gum disease are the principal cause of missing teeth. The American Dental Association (ADA) statistic reflects that one in four U.S. citizens over 60 years old have lost their entire teeth in an arch.
Dental implants in Naples are the best alternative to prevent the harmful effects of missing teeth. The process of acquiring dental implants is quite straightforward. The titanium screws, which are topped by acrylic crowns, penetrate the jawbone through surgical drilling. The screw merges into the bone and provides support to remaining teeth and dental prostheses such as dentures. A dentist in Naples will offer a reliable assessment of dentures and other alternatives for a missing tooth.
Missing several teeth can influence general health and daily life. Replacing lost or damaged teeth is essential to avoid the chain of adverse effects that comes with an empty smile. Replacing teeth when necessary is crucial to prevent the following list of consequences.
Prejudicial Effects on Oral Health
Oral and facial structures closely interact with each other. Missing teeth disturb the dental structure even if it’s in the back of the mouth. After a tooth is missing, secondary effects start to take place. At first, the remaining teeth begin to shift, particularly those next to the gap. Their movement causes dental pain and headaches. Jawbone deterioration happens when teeth are absent, which leads to a decrease in density and the eroding of the bone. Eventually, this results in the drooping of the facial muscles, which creates a sunken look and premature aging. Furthermore, these muscle changes can lead to TMD.
The loss of multiple teeth over time is a typical scenario that speeds up this process. In addition, tiny solid pieces of food can come in between the missing teeth hurting the exposed roots. This can be extremely painful and eventually leads to patients reducing their consumption of food.
Digestion-Related Issues
The teeth are central to chewing and swallowing. Their complete structure has a significant impact on the initial part of food processing. Failing to chew solids causes delayed digestion, decreased satiety, and digestive problems. Problems such as abdominal bloating, gas, and heavy digestion can take place. Furthermore, tooth loss also drives the patient to opt for softer foods, which allow them to swallow effortlessly. These meals have less nutritional value, leading to further health problems such as malnutrition.
Speech Troubles
Not many people know this, but teeth play a vital role in speech patterns. Teeth interact with the tongue and lips to pronounce some words. Missing one or more teeth leads to critical speech challenges. For instance, the front teeth are necessary to pronounce words such as “teeth”! Teeth play a remarkable role in the pronunciation of a variety of sounds. Therefore, tooth loss can become a frustrating situation.
Appearance
Even a single missing tooth can severely affect our confidence and put us under emotional stress. Moreover, when you lose a tooth you end up missing more than just a complete smile. After the jawbone erodes, your face can seem older than it should with hollow and saggy cheeks. Physical appearance is more than aesthetics; self-confidence is an imperative step for a healthy mind. Depression can influence mental health and affect both work and personal life. Replacing missing teeth and visiting a dentist near you, will heighten your confidence.
Dental implants can dramatically change your life. With a success rate of over 95%, dental posts are an excellent solution for missing teeth. Natural bite function, fluent speech, and a radiant smile are the main results of dentures. This long-term investment guarantees a positive change in your health and appearance. Schedule a consultation for dental implants near you today!