The Negative Effects of Tooth Loss

Finding the right solution to replace your missing teeth is incredibly important and time-sensitive. 

We know that tooth loss was the last thing you thought you would ever have to deal with as an adult, but know that you are not alone and that you do have options. Millions of American adults have at least one missing tooth; however, most of the time you wouldn’t even know it because they have already obtained a dental implant, bridge, or dentures to restore their smiles. Now, you can too and our Russellville, AR, dentist Dr. Richard Morgan can help.

So, why is it so important to replace your missing tooth or teeth? Untreated tooth loss doesn’t just impact your appearance and self-confidence; it can also cause these problems:


Bone Loss 

This is the most common and one of the most detrimental consequences of untreated tooth loss. When one or more teeth fall out or are removed, the jawbone doesn't receive the stimulation that it needs to produce new bone cells. As a result, the bone deteriorates and loses density, which can also alter the overall shape of the face. To prevent bone loss, our Russellville, AR, dentist can replace missing tooth roots with dental implants, which stimulate the jawbone in the same way as tooth roots and can prevent bone loss.


Difficulty Chewing 

Even just missing a single permanent tooth is enough to affect your bite and your ability to chew. Gaps in your smile cause uneven weight distribution among the rest of your natural teeth, which can put added force and pressure on these teeth. Over time, this can cause excess wear, which can also increase the risk for dental cracks, chips, and fractures. By filling gaps with false teeth you restore chewing, making it safe and easy to enjoy all the foods you once loved.


Shifting Teeth 

Another consequence of leaving gaps in your smile is that eventually as the jawbone begins to change shape the rest of your teeth will begin to drift into those gaps. This can lead to further gaps between teeth, as well as crowding, overlapping, and crookedness. To prevent the need for braces later on, the best way to prevent teeth from drifting or moving out of alignment is by replacing missing teeth as soon as possible.


Digestive Issues 

Since teeth are no longer able to fully chew certain foods, this means that your stomach is going to have a tougher time trying to break down larger bites. This can lead to stomach upset and pain. If you find yourself dealing with an upset stomach after meals, tooth loss could be to blame.


If you are interested in receiving dental implants, bridges, or dentures right here in Russellville, AR, then call Ashcraft Morgan Dental at (479) 968-1470 to schedule a consultation and to take the next steps toward a healthy, full smile again.

Our Location

Find us on the map

Hours of Operation

Our Regular Schedule

Primary Location

Monday:

8:00 am-6:00 pm

Tuesday:

8:00 am-5:00 pm

Wednesday:

8:00 am-5:00 pm

Thursday:

8:00 am-5:00 pm

Friday:

8:00 am-12:00 pm

Saturday:

Closed

Sunday:

Closed