Tooth loss can occur as a result of decay, gum disease, cancer, injury, or wear. Missing teeth can detract from the aesthetics of the face, cause bone loss in the jaw, and affect speech and chewing abilities. You may be surprised by the following facts about missing teeth and the importance of replacing them.
Statistics
According to the American College of Prosthodontists, over 35 million people in the United States do not have any teeth, and 178 million Americans are missing at least one tooth.
How to Correct Them
Missing teeth can be replaced with a dental bridge, dentures, or dental implants, depending on how much of the tooth is missing or how many teeth are missing.
Implants Get to the Root of the Problem
When an entire tooth is missing, the jawbone that once supported the tooth and its roots will begin to deteriorate from disuse. Dental implants replace the root of a missing tooth to prevent atrophy of the jawbone. For more information on this, check out my blog about how dental implants prevent bone loss.
If you would like to correct missing teeth or are interested in any other cosmetic dentistry procedure, Kevin B. Sands, DDS is here to help. He offers a wide range of dental treatments to help each and every one of his patients achieve the smile they desire. We encourage you to contact our practice by calling (310) 273-0111 or by filling out our online contact form today.