Tooth Loss
Whittier, CA
 Taking care of your teeth is essential for keeping them strong and healthy. Proper oral healthcare consists of several different parts, including regular brushing, flossing, and dental visits for cleanings and exams. When you neglect any portion of your oral care routine, your risk of developing gum disease and tooth decay greatly increases. Both of these issues can ultimately lead to tooth loss if they go untreated. Sometimes, accidents can occur despite proper oral care that can lead to tooth loss. No matter how you lose your teeth, the effects are all the same, and they are all devastating. Simon K. Choyee, DDS, Inc. is here to help.
Eating Becomes a Challenge
One of the main functions of your teeth is the act of biting and chewing. Chewing is the first stage of digestion, breaking down foods so that nutrients are more accessible to the body. When you lose teeth, chewing becomes more challenging. The more teeth you lose, the harder the action becomes. When you are unable to thoroughly chew your food, your body has to work harder later to gain access to nutrients. This can eventually lead to malnutrition, even if you are eating well.
Speaking Becomes More Difficult
Teeth control airflow when you speak. This makes it possible for you to form a variety of different words and sounds, allowing you to communicate effectively. When you lose teeth, the air can flow more freely. You may develop a lisp and have a more difficult time saying certain words, which can make communicating with others a challenge. You may also find that you have to repeat yourself several times.
What Happens to Your Smile?
Your teeth are one of the first things that people notice when you smile. A beautiful smile leaves a powerful, lasting impression. When you lose teeth, however, your smile is significantly affected. Not only is your smile affected, but those missing teeth can also negatively impact your confidence. Suddenly, you find yourself hiding your smile behind your hand, giving tight-lipped grins, or even refusing to smile at all. While these actions may not seem like such a big deal, they can negatively impact the impressions you leave on those around you.
Tooth Loss and the Effects on Your Jawbone
While many effects of tooth loss are noticeable right away, there are effects that begin to show later. The teeth play an important role in the health of your jawbone. When you chew, the roots of your teeth stimulate the bone, triggering the body to send essential nutrients. Tooth loss means less stimulation, which results in fewer nutrients being sent. Eventually, the bone begins to grow weak and change shape. When the bone changes shape, your healthy teeth begin to shift out of alignment, throwing off your bite. This can lead to issues such as bruxism and TMJ disorder. If you lose a significant number of teeth, your facial shape begins to change as well. The cheeks sink in, skin sags, and wrinkles form, all of which can age you several years beyond your actual age.
Tooth replanting is possible when dental trauma takes place. Dental implants are also a possible solution.
Replacing missing teeth is essential for restoring the functions of your mouth, your oral health, and the beauty of your smile. If you are missing teeth, call Simon K. Choyee, DDS, Inc. today to schedule your consultation a (562) 947-4781. |
