Importance of dental assessment when teeth are missing
Tooth loss is a common problem that affects a large part of the world's population both esthetically and with the normal function of the oral cavity. Whether due to caries, periodontal disease, trauma or aging, tooth loss can have long-term repercussions on the oral and general health of the sufferer. For this reason, it is essential to have a thorough and detailed dental assessment by a dentist when teeth have been lost. Below, we explore the importance of this process and how it can contribute to a better quality of life.
Prevention of additional problems
When a tooth is lost, it not only affects the smile, which is the esthetic part that many patients feel self-conscious about, but also affects the alignment or positioning of the other teeth present in the oral cavity. Adjacent teeth can move into the empty space, which alters the bite and increases the risk of malocclusion problems, jaw pain and even abnormal wear of the remaining teeth becoming a problem not only for a single missing tooth but for all the teeth present in the mouth that have altered their position in search of a balance to adequately distribute the chewing forces which has been altered by the loss of the tooth. A detailed dental assessment can identify these risks and take preventive or restorative measures, such as the placement of an implant or dental bridge to restore function and prevent future dental displacement.
Restoration of masticatory function
Teeth serve not only for esthetics, but also to facilitate chewing and digestion. The loss of a tooth can make it difficult to chew certain foods, which in the long term can affect nutrition and digestive health. Through dental assessment, the specialist can recommend the best option to restore chewing function, such as dental implants, partial dentures or fixed dental bridges, which will allow the patient to comfortably eat any food again without the constraint of looking for something soft that may not be very nutritious for the body.
Oral tissue health
The absence of teeth not only affects the surrounding teeth, but can also influence the health of the soft tissues of the mouth, such as the gums. Over time, the jaw bones may begin to lose density due to the lack of stimulation normally provided by the tooth roots, meaning that this bone is resorbed and irreversibly lost. An early dental assessment can detect signs of bone atrophy and plan treatments such as dental implants that stimulate the bone and prevent further bone loss.
Prevention of oral diseases
Tooth loss, if not properly treated, can be a breeding ground for various oral diseases. For example, the accumulation of food and bacteria in the empty space, as well as the migration or improper positioning of soft tissues in places where the missing tooth was, thus allowing lacerations and ongoing tissue damage to occur and can lead to benign or malignant lesions.
The most appropriate type of dental treatment is determined and evaluated by the dentist, through an assessment appointment, where he will not only examine the patient physically but also radiographically to know the condition of the bone and thus be able to offer the best dental treatment according to each case and the aesthetic and functional needs of the patient.
If you would like to make an appointment for an evaluation and rediscover the pleasure of smiling, request a citation and treatment plan with 3D tomography at 4010-3333, at WhatsApp 7031-7979. It will be a pleasure for us to serve you.
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