There are several causes of missing teeth, such as genetics, tooth decay, gum disease, and assorted mouth injuries. Missing teeth are widely considered a cosmetic dental issue, yet can cause various health problems. Learn why dentists recommend missing teeth-related solutions such as dentures and dental implants below. 

What Kind of Health Problems Can Missing Teeth Cause? 

1. Altered Bite

When even one tooth is missing for any reason, the adjoining teeth start shifting. This can eventually alter your bite and make normal activities such as chewing, swallowing, and speaking difficult. Some foods might become painful to chew, such as raw vegetables and certain raw fruits, like apples. Painful chewing can result in abstaining from healthy foods, which affects your nutrition and overall health. A vitamin B12 deficiency, for example, can cause health issues such as fatigue, poor memory, confusion, weight loss, and mouth soreness. 

2. Tooth Decay

As adjacent teeth shift, they can become challenging to clean. This allows food particles and bacteria to collect, which increases the risk of tooth decay. Tooth decay, like altered bite issues, can cause chewing pain and subsequently nutritional deficiencies. Unless actions such as partial denture or dental implant outfitting takes place, these teeth can require root canals. If the decay is severe, extraction might be your only treatment. 

3. Jawbone Deterioration

The jawbone needs the stimulation tooth roots provide to remain healthy and strong. Missing teeth cause this bone to deteriorate instead of regenerating. The jaw muscles can weaken as well. Without treatment, jawbone deterioration can eventually cause the face to have a “sunken” appearance. Dental implants are typically recommended to prevent further jawbone loss, as the titanium tooth roots provide the stimulation necessary for tissue regeneration. 

Stay ahead of missing teeth-related health issues with services from Ronald L. Rasmussen, DDS. This dentist provides residents throughout the Sacramento and Elk Grove areas of California with a full suite of dental services, including root canals, dentures, dental implants, and crowns. Call (916) 689-1100 today to make an appointment or learn more about dentures and other services online.