Why should I replace missing back teeth?

This is a really good question, and one we hear frequently at our Harleysville office. It’s logical to wonder why replacing a back tooth important when it’s not even visible when you smile.

When a posterior (back) tooth is lost, there are many consequences for the remaining teeth, gums, surrounding bone. All your teeth were designed for a specific function, and the molars are critical for chewing comfortably and maintaining a more youthful appearance. If missing back teeth aren’t replaced, your front teeth are subject to more stress than they were meant to handle.

The Issues with Tooth Loss

One serious problem that occurs with tooth loss is that neighboring teeth have a tendency to drift into the empty space or tip towards it. Your bite will be adversely affected, and as your teeth shift out of position, they can’t really function the way they’re meant to.

Another complication of missing teeth is the deterioration of underlying bone that naturally occurs when teeth are lost. Like all your other teeth, your back teeth help define the dimension of your face. When back teeth are missing their loss can gradually become more noticeable over time and can make you look older.

Tooth Replacement in Harleysville

At the office of William T. McMaugh, DDS, we offer so many options for tooth replacement that there’s really no need to live with a gap in your smile. We can help you choose from dental implants, fixed bridges, or a partial denture to restore your smile back to it’s whole and healthy condition. Check out our dental implant service page!