Missing teeth are more than just an aesthetic concern, they contribute to the development of additional dental problems. The prompt and effective replacement of lost teeth is the key to maintaining optimal oral health and natural aesthetics.
A highly trained dentist with a background in laboratory technology, Dr. Sousa works with patients on an individual basis to replace lost teeth with natural-looking, comfortable dental restorations. From bridges to all types of implants, Dr. Sousa can meet your needs and goals with personalized care in our Roslyn Heights dental office.
Can Missing Teeth Affect Your Health?
Yes! Missing teeth can affect not only oral health but overall health and well-being. Initially, the loss of a tooth, or several teeth, may have an emotional impact on your self-confidence and lead to embarrassment about your appearance.
Depending on the location of the lost tooth, eating your favorite foods may become difficult and your diet may change, possibly leading to health concerns related to good nutrition. Difficulty speaking clearly can affect your willingness and ability to socialize with confidence, or even to perform in your professional environment.
The loss of teeth also means the loss of a tooth root, which stabilizes both the tooth structure and the bone tissue around it. A missing tooth means that bone tissue in the area changes, leading to shifting of teeth and changes in the fit and appearance of the jaw.
Over time, patients with missing teeth are at increased risk for periodontal disease, tooth decay, and bite-related problems. Gum disease, a major concern, and a common side effect can also lead to an increased risk of developing cardiovascular and systemic related disease. Gum disease causes the gums to fail to provide an effective barrier for harmful bacteria.
If the remaining teeth begin to shift position, the bite is affected, and chewing food can become more challenging. Patients also experience changes in their overall appearance as the jaw bone recedes over time. All in all, tooth loss and missing teeth can affect your health in many ways and diminish your quality of life.
Replacing Teeth in Roslyn Heights
Dr. Sousa takes a comprehensive approach to your dental care, taking the time to thoroughly evaluate your dental health condition and to gain an understanding of your personal concerns and goals when it comes to restoring your smile. We offer a range of tooth replacement options to meet your needs and Dr. Sousa will explain all aspects of recommended treatment for your consideration. We offer comprehensive implant dentistry, performing all phases of the procedure in the comfort of our dental office for consistency of care.
Schedule An Appointment
Ready to restore a beautiful, functional smile? Contact our office at (516) 253-6873 to schedule a consultation with Dr. Sousa and discuss your options for tooth replacement.
Missing Teeth FAQs
What are my options if I am only missing one tooth?
For one missing tooth, Dr. Sousa can place a fixed dental bridge or a dental implant-supported crown. Both options will successfully replace the tooth and prevent the surrounding teeth from shifting towards the gap. However, a dental bridge will require the two teeth on each side of the gap to be reduced to accommodate the bridge. A dental implant does not harm any healthy teeth and prevents bone loss in the jaw by replacing the missing tooth root.
Should I get dentures or dental implants?
Dr. Sousa recommends denture implants for patients missing most or all of their teeth. Denture implants offer more benefits for your oral health and are the next best thing after natural teeth. Dentures that are secured with teeth implants come with fewer eating restrictions, will hold the restoration secure in the mouth preventing slipping, and will preserve the jaw bone. However, not everyone will qualify for implants. You must be in good health and have enough jaw bone to support them.
How do missing teeth affect my overall health?
There are several ways missing teeth can impact your overall health. People with damaged or missing teeth cannot chew certain types of food efficiently and therefore may need to eliminate healthy foods from their diet. Missing teeth also create a void in the jaw bone with will cause bone loss over time. Missing teeth have also been linked to heart disease, diabetes, stroke, and other types of disease.