Missing Teeth, Gum Recession And Bone Reduction

Missing teeth

Missing teeth can be problematic, not just because they affect the look of your smile, but also because they cause problems for the remaining teeth and increase the risk of oral health diseases.

Gaps in the smile are not aesthetically pleasing and if you are not happy with the look of your smile, this can affect your confidence and self-esteem. Missing teeth can also cause the remaining teeth to start to move out of position and you may find it difficult to speak clearly and chew your food properly; the teeth also help to support the cheeks and if you have a lot of missing teeth, the cheeks may start sag.

The same is true if your teeth aren’t aligned correctly, your face can lose structure so it is always good to look for an orthodontist or an invisible braces orthodontist. These can normally be done very swiftly, sometimes even in six months, especially with a treatment like CFast.

Treatments for missing teeth include dental implants, dentures and dental bridges; it is always beneficial to replace missing teeth and your dentist can discuss the different options with you.

For more information on how dental implants can help, visit this website.

Gum recession

Gum recession, also known as receding gums, usually occurs as a result of gum disease (also known as periodontist or periodontal disease). Gum recession occurs when the gum tissue pulls back from the tooth, causing the tooth root to become exposed and a pocket to form between the tooth and the gum.

If gum disease is left untreated, it can be very serious and the tooth will eventually come loose and fall out. Gum disease is the leading cause of adult tooth loss, but it can be prevented very easily by sticking to a good daily oral hygiene regime, keeping an eye on your diet and visiting your dentist on a regular basis. See more information.

The most common early warning sign of gum recession is tooth sensitivity; it is a good idea to see your dentist if you experience sensitivity.

Treatment for gum disease includes intensive oral hygiene and cleaning treatments, scale and polish and root planning; in severe cases, it can take several months to treat gum disease and there may be permanent damage to the gums and the surrounding bone structure.

Bone reduction

Bone reduction, also known as bone loss, is usually caused by gum disease. Bone loss can cause the teeth to come loose and fall out, as bone tissue is lost from the jaw, which supports the teeth. Once bone has been lost from the jaw, it will not be replaced but it is possible to graft bone tissue from other parts of the body or use artificial bone materials.

The most effective ways to prevent bone loss are to practice good oral hygiene, to see your dentist for regular check-ups and to ensure that you take in plenty of calcium and vitamin D. Calcium is important for strong teeth and bones and good sources include milk, yoghurt and cheese.