Some people who lose one of their back teeth wonder whether to replace it. After all, it doesn’t show when you smile and there are other teeth to chew with. Why not avoid the expense to replace it and save some money? Actually, Designer Smiles in Fargo has several very good reasons to replace a back tooth with a permanent 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, or TMJ pain.
2. The underlying bone will eventually pull back.
Without the tooth root, the jaw bone pulls back. This changes the contours of the face and gives it a sunk-in look due to a decline 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 result in excessive wear, fracture, or pain.
If you have a missing back tooth and want to learn about dental implants, call Designer Smiles. Our services include general dentistry. Call today to schedule an appointment! We also serve West Fargo, Moorhead, and the surrounding area.
Contact Designer Smiles:
701-298-9400
Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):
3525 25th St S
Fargo, North Dakota
58104
