CONSEQUENCES OF A LOST TOOTH
Q: What happens when you lose a tooth?
A: There are several ways to lose a tooth. A fall or some other type of accident can knock a tooth out, or a tooth may finally fall to decay or loosen and fall out because of periodontal, or gum, disease.
One of the dangers of a lost tooth is that it can start a domino effect in your mouth. In a normal healthy mouth, the closely packed teeth support one another. When there is a gap in that support system, over time the teeth near the gap will start to shift and loosen. So, if you lose a tooth, for whatever reason, you should consult with a dentist immediately.
Your dentist may recommend a crown or a bridge. A crown would be fitted over the remaining portion of a tooth that was essentially, but not completely, lost. A bridge is an appliance that fills the space where a tooth is completely lost. You may also be a candidate for an implant, which involves putting a metal anchor directly into the jaw and, after a time, attaching a small post and artificial tooth to the anchor. Not everyone, however, is a candidate for an implant. You must have sufficient jawbone for the procedure to be successful.
If you are missing a tooth, or have loose teeth, talk with a dentist about your options. The best way to cut down the likelihood of being in that position, though, is to visit your dentist at least twice a year.
If you, your family, or your friends need dental care, we would be honored to provide you with state-of-the-art dental care in our modern dental practice. Refer someone you love to someone you trust!
Presented as a service to the community by Doctors Hoover and Yanda,
39 Milford Drive, Hudson, Ohio 44236. 330-650-0360.