Some people tend to believe that when they lose one tooth that it isn't a big deal. While it may not seem like it at first, it becomes a major problem in regard to your overall oral health in the long run. This is why it is important to consider what options are available and learn more about the importance of a single tooth replacement. Read on to learn more:

Why Does Just One Tooth Need To Be Replaced?

If you didn't lose a tooth in the front of your mouth, what's the big deal? No one can see it and it doesn't seem to be causing you any problems. You can still eat and talk. However, the impact is often something that you can't see. For example, one of the main issues that you will encounter is the teeth around the area where the tooth used to be can move. This can lead to misalignment of your teeth and may even cause the jawbone to shift.

In the end, you could end up losing more teeth because of the problems that a single missing tooth can cause. By replacing the missing tooth with some sort of false tooth, your other teeth will remain in their proper position and your oral health stays in good shape.

How Can a Single Tooth Be Replaced?

The two most popular options for replacing a missing tooth are bridges and dental implants. The only problem with the bridge is that it doesn't replace the root of the tooth. A fixed permanent bridge consists of a false tooth that uses adjacent teeth with crowns to support it.

However, with a dental implant, you will receive a natural-looking, permanent solution that keeps your jawbone intact because a titanium screw is placed into the jawbone where the root should be.

Plus, the American Academy of Periodontology says that your gums could eventually recede with the placement of a bridge, causing an unsightly defect in the mouth. This isn't a problem with a dental implant, which is much more attractive.

No one wants to lose a tooth and have to deal with the consequences that come with the missing tooth. However, life seems to throw curveballs when you least expect them. When it comes to your smile and your oral health, it is important that you take corrective action immediately to ensure that your smile doesn't suffer any more than it has to. When you've lost a tooth, speak to a dental implant professional to find out if you're a candidate and to learn more about the durability, function and convenience of your tooth replacement options.

To learn more, contact a professional like Thomas H. Seal DDS with any questions you have.