Why replace a missing tooth

Aug. 13, 2024

Replacing missing teeth can have many positive benefits to your overall health. Whether it’s your mental health, oral health or overall wellbeing - replacing missing teeth is known to support a healthier, happier life.

Why replace a missing tooth

Mental Health and Confidence

Having one or more missing teeth can have a direct impact on your mental health and confidence. It is known that missing teeth has a direct correlation to depression. Additionally, smiling releases endorphins which lead to the feeling of happiness. These endorphins then lift your mood and reduce stress. A missing tooth can prohibit individuals from smiling which leads to a decrease in endorphins.

Oral Health

Replacing missing teeth helps to prevent serious dental issues down the line. When a tooth is missing for too long, the surrounding teeth start to move which changes the alignment of your bite. Long term, a missing tooth can also lead to gum recession and periodontal disease. Additionally, bone loss can occur because the jawbone is no longer being stimulated by chewing. Over time this can cause resorption, which is a loss of bone mass and density due to atrophy. Resorption can change the shape of your face and create additional dental issues down the line.

Nutrition

Having one or more missing teeth can make it hard to properly chew food. This creates more work for the digestive system, as it now has to break down food more than usual. This in turn decreases your nutritional value which can have an impact on your full body health.

What to consider before replacing your missing teeth

Number of teeth to replace

The number of teeth that require replacing will determine which dental appliance is right for you. For more information, read our implants vs. bridge and what are dentures.

Cost

Dental appliances range in cost based on the number of teeth that need replacing, surgical needs, materials used and how long they last. Consider your budget and needs before coming to a decision regarding how to replace your missing teeth.

Oral health

Some dental appliances require a healthy jawbone to be eligible. Keep your oral health in mind when considering your options, as there may be some appliances that work better for your personal needs.

Ready to get started?

All things considered, replacing a missing tooth is a great next step in being and feeling healthier. Ready to get started? See if ResetSmile’s partial dentures are right for you.