Losing a tooth in a noticeable spot may immediately send you to the dentist for a replacement. But what about those missing back teeth, the ones no one can see? Do they warrant the same urgency for replacement? Believe it or not, the answer is yes! In this blog, you’ll learn about the oral health risks associated with neglecting missing back teeth and the benefits of choosing dental implants as a reliable solution.
Why Are Your Back Teeth So Important?
Your back teeth, particularly the molars, may not be on display when you smile, but they play an incredibly important role in maintaining your oral health. Here’s why these unseen teeth are so crucial:
- Chewing Efficiency – Back teeth are designed for efficient chewing, grinding, and breaking down food. Losing a molar can disrupt this process, making it challenging to properly process and digest food.
- Maintaining Alignment – Each tooth in your mouth plays a role in keeping neighboring teeth in place. When a tooth is missing, the adjacent teeth may gradually shift, leading to misalignment and bite issues.
- Bone Health – The roots of your teeth stimulate the jawbone, promoting its strength and density. When a tooth is lost, this stimulation diminishes, and the jawbone may start to atrophy, affecting facial structure.
How You Can Replace Missing Back Teeth
If you find yourself with a missing molar, there are several options to consider for replacement. Some of those include:
- Dental Implants – The ideal solution for replacing missing back teeth is dental implants, which have surged in popularity. Comprised of titanium metal posts, they can effectively take the place of lost back teeth, offering a strong foundation for prosthetics like bridges and dentures. Plus, dental implants are equally great at replacing missing front teeth.
- Dental Bridges – Another popular method for replacing missing back teeth is through bridges. Comprising two or more crowns with artificial teeth positioned in between, this solution involves cementing the crowns to the adjacent teeth.
Benefits of Replacing Missing Back Teeth
Aside from completing your smile, there are many benefits to replacing missing back teeth, such as:
- Jawbone preservation
- Prevent neighboring teeth from shifting
- Restored chewing function
- Enhanced aesthetics
About the Practice
Tamborello Dental Associates is committed to helping patients achieve their best smiles. Whether you need to schedule a routine checkup or complex restorative treatment, we are ready to address all your oral health needs. For any inquiries on dental implants, you can visit our website or call (832) 742-7613.