Some people who lose a back 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? At The Center for Dental Anesthesia in Alexandria, we have several very good reasons to replace a back tooth with a dental implant:
1. The adjacent tooth (or teeth) may start shifting.
If a tooth tips, moves, or rotates, it can affect 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, and other problems.
2. The underlying bone will eventually loosen.
Without the tooth root, the jaw bone recedes. This changes the shape of the face and gives it a sunk-in look due to a decrease in supporting bone. The vertical shortening advances and becomes more pronounced as you get older.
3. There will be extra stress on the teeth that take over the chewing functions.
This can lead to excessive wear, fracture, or pain.
If you have a missing back tooth and want to learn about dental implants, call the Center for Dental Anesthesia in Alexandria. We offer family dentistry, and a wide range of other services. Schedule an appointment today.
Contact Center for Dental Anesthesia:
703-379-6400
Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):
5284 Dawes Ave
Alexandria, Virginia
22311
