Some people who lose a posterior tooth question whether to replace it. After all, it doesn’t show when you smile and there are other teeth to take over the chewing functions. Why not avoid the cost of replacing it and save some money? Actually, there are several critical reasons to replace a back tooth with a tooth implant at Jurich Dental if possible:
1. The adjacent tooth (or teeth) may start shifting.
If a tooth tips, moves, or rotates, it can affect the bite. The unopposed tooth can also move, though it generally moves outward from the bone (over-eruption). Teeth that are displaced can become more vulnerable to gum disease, decay, or TMJ pain.
2. The underlying bone will eventually recede.
Without the tooth root, the jaw bone recedes. This changes the dimensions of the face and gives it a sunk-in look due to a reduction in supporting bone. The vertical shortening proceeds and becomes more pronounced as you get older.
3. There will be increased stress on the teeth that take over the chewing functions.
This can lead to excessive wear, fracture, or pain.
If you have a missing posterior tooth and want to learn about dental implants, call Jurich Dental at 210-493-3040 to schedule an appointment.
Contact Jurich Dental Family Cosmetic and Sedation Dentistry:
210-493-3040
Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):
13220 Huebner Rd
San Antonio, Texas
78230
