Some men and women 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 important reasons to replace a back tooth with a permanent dental implant if possible:
1. The adjacent tooth (or teeth) may start shifting.
If a tooth tips, moves, or rotates, it can impact 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 contours of the face and gives it a sunk-in look due to a decline in supporting bone. The vertical shortening progresses and becomes more pronounced as you get older.
3. There will be increased 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 Montz and Maher Dental Group at 281-485-4829 to schedule an appointment.
Contact Montz and Maher Dental Group:
2443 S Galveston Ave
Pearland, Texas 77581
Pearland Phone: 832-895-51201769 S. Friendswood Dr. Ste 107
Friendswood, TX 77546
Friendswood Phone: 281-482-1275
