The Benefits of Having All of Your Teeth

Are you missing one or more permanent teeth? If so, you’re not alone. Many people are missing at least one tooth because of accident, injury, severe decay, or genetics. Dental implants in Houston are a permanent alternative to other tooth replacement options such as dentures or removable bridges. Implants are strong and stable, and can last a lifetime when they are properly maintained. When you have all of your teeth—or dental implants in their place—it will help prevent jaw bone loss that can lead to a sunken-in appearance. Keep reading to find out more about the benefits of having all of your teeth.

Aesthetic Benefits

If you are missing at least one tooth, it can make you feel self-conscious about the way you look. You may feel less confident when speaking or smiling, which can affect how other people perceive you. By taking good care of your teeth and gums, you can reduce the chances that you’ll lose any of your permanent teeth. Tooth loss can be a result of untreated gum disease or severe decay, so talk to your dentist about what you can do to prevent tooth loss in the first place. If you are already missing a tooth, replacing it is a wise idea as it will help you maintain your face shape.

Functional Benefits

Your appearance won’t be the only reason to consider dental implants if you’re missing teeth. When you are missing one or more teeth, it can affect the way you speak and eat. Your remaining teeth can start to drift into the empty spaces left by missing teeth, which changes your bite. This can put extra stress on your teeth, causing excess wear and tear and leading to other dental problems. Missing a tooth can also increase your risk of developing gum disease, which in turn can increase your chances of losing more teeth. When you have all of your teeth, you should be able to speak and chew comfortably, so take care of your natural teeth before it’s too late.