The aim of modern dental practices is to maintain oral health and when necessary, restore an individual’s teeth and gums to their normal level of comfort, function, and esthetics. However, this becomes more of a challenge if you have lost teeth. Fortunately, Dr. Gary Walker and Dr. Rebecca Walker, your dentists at Walker Dentistry in Fishers, IN, offer tooth loss solutions to prevent the negative effects of tooth loss—read on to learn more.
The Consequences of Tooth Loss
Fishers, IN, residents who have one or more missing teeth may notice the following negative effects:
- Jawbone loss: When you chew your food, the pressure on your teeth stimulate your jawbones to grow and remain healthy. In areas of your mouth where you have missing teeth, your bone will lack this stimulation. Over time, your bone density will be compromised, and your jawbones will become weaker. Replacing lost teeth with dental implants can prevent this from occurring.
- Rapid facial aging: Losing a significant number of teeth can add up to ten years to your facial appearance. This is because bone loss gradually causes gum depletion, an issue that decreases the angle of your face, causing deep vertical lines around your lips and chin. Your skin will also begin to sag due to muscle loss around the jaw.
- Dietary effects: People who have lost several teeth find it increasingly difficult to bite and chew. Because of this, they tend to avoid certain foods. This can lead to poor nutrition and vitamin and fiber deficiency. This, in turn, can increase your risk of illness and disease as well as a range of digestive disorders.
If you are living in Fishers, IN, and need a dentist, call Drs. Walker at Walker Dentistry by dialing (317) 849-8550.