If you are missing one or more teeth, and the gaps are visible when you smile, this can make you feel self-conscious. There are other problems with missing teeth that go well beyond your appearance. More and more studies are showing that missing teeth leads to poor nutrition, which in turn is linked to severe systemic diseases such as diabetes, stroke, and heart disease.
Estimates by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention put the number of American adults who are missing at least one tooth at about 40 million. This is a serious health issue.
Missing teeth cannot be ignored. Depending on the number of teeth you are missing, a dental bridge, dentures, or dental implants are worth discussing with your dentist in Poway.
1—Missing Teeth Impact Your Smile
People who don’t smile because they are embarrassed to show their missing teeth often find that they feel less happy. Others react to them differently as well. This can undermine a person’s self-confidence and negatively impact their overall well-being.
2—Missing Teeth Can Cause Your Healthy Teeth to Shift
When even one tooth is missing, this can mean the rest of your teeth will shift in an attempt to fill in the space left behind. This impacts your bite, making chewing difficult. It can also lead to the loss of even more teeth.
3—Missing Teeth Can Make Eating Nutritious Foods Difficult
Biting into a juicy steak or delicious apple can be a challenge when you are missing teeth. You might start opting for easy-to-chew, soft foods, skipping out on many of your nutritious favorites. This can have a detrimental impact on the health of your entire body.
Don’t let missing teeth ruin your oral health—or your overall health. Talk to your dentist in Poway about a dental bridge or other tooth replacement options. Call AllDent Dental Center today!