Many dentists advise their patients right after tooth extraction to have something to fill the gap, and for good reason. Gaps in the teeth may cause serious consequences to overall wellbeing in the long run. If left untreated, it may affect a person’s health and appearance.
Long-term impacts of Teeth Gaps
When people have an incomplete set of teeth, they will have a hard time brushing or flossing between the gaps. This increases the likelihood of bacterial growth and infection among the remaining teeth. Poor oral health maintenance due to the gaps may cause dental caries, gum disease and other oral problems as a result.
By getting oral diseases again, patients put themselves at risk of experiencing sensitive, loose teeth, which will eventually lead to tooth loss. The cycle continues if patients cannot conduct proper oral hygiene due to the gaps.
The more teeth patients lose, the more likely they will develop premature aging as well. Facial bones and muscles need stimulation from the teeth to stay in shape. When a tooth is lost, the alveolar bone deteriorates along with the external width, height, and volume of the bone. This causes the gum tissues as well as the surrounding bones and muscles to deteriorate, resulting in facial collapse.
Prevention and Treatment
Teeth gaps may cause dire consequences if left untreated, which is why dentists highlight the importance of filling them as soon as possible. They highly recommend that patients undergo dental treatments quickly to avoid oral problems and other effects of teeth gaps.
Veneers and bonding help close small gaps and improve the teeth’s overall appearance at the same time. Dental implants, crowns and bridges replace missing teeth, which will help delay bone loss and premature aging.
Filling the Gaps Through Cosmetic Dentistry
Gap-toothed grins are not something people can ignore, not when it means a permanent blight on their appearance, confidence, lifestyle and opportunities in life. It is important for patients to fill the gaps right before these become a real problem.
David Madruga is the person to call when it comes to teeth gaps. He offers a range of dental treatments that will help improve the teeth’s health, appearance and function. He is committed to changing lives by transforming smiles.
Click here for more information on David Madruga.