Whether it resulted from accidental injury or decay, a tooth extraction is a procedure that can have a lasting impact if missing teeth aren’t replaced with dental implants, a bridge, or dentures. Not only does a missing tooth affect your smile, but it can also lead to significant dental problems. Here’s a closer look at why you should seek out replacement options with the help of a dentist.

What Happens When You Don’t Replace a Tooth?

1. Shifting Teeth

Your teeth form a structure that can begin to collapse if one or more teeth are removed. Over time, this structure will shift, allowing the surrounding teeth to move and try to fill the space left behind.

This can make your teeth appear crooked when you smile, and it may also change where your upper and lower teeth bite together. An irregular bite can cause TMJ, joint pain, gum recession, tooth sensitivity, and cracked teeth. 

2. Difficulty Chewing

Depending on where teeth are missing, you can have a difficult time eating certain foods. Front teeth that aren’t replaced with implants can prevent you from eating a wide range of foods, such as apples, since you rely on your front teeth to break food into pieces.

Molars grind meat and thicker foods for easier digestion, but some opt not to replace them because they can’t be seen. However, many people change their minds after they begin having digestive issues.

3. Receding Gums

Without a tooth present, there’s no pressure from adjacent teeth to support your gums, so they may slowly shorten. Gum recession is common on the side of teeth facing the empty space after tooth extraction if no implant is installed. As a result, you may experience bad breath, pain at the gumline, and bleeding when you brush or floss. Further tooth loss may also occur.

William U. Britton, DDS, MAGD, in Chillicothe, OH, specializes in tooth extraction and dental implants to provide patients with healthy, engaging smiles. A member of the American Dental Association®, Ohio Dental Association®, and Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine®, Dr. Britton draws from a wealth of experience and training and uses state-of-the-art equipment for oral surgeries and procedures. Call (740) 772-2225 to schedule an appointment or visit the office’s website to learn more about the services offered.