When Your Molars Are Missing: 7 Reasons to Replace Your Missing Molars with Dental Implants
Posted on: 24 February 2017
If you have recently lost one or more molars, then you probably noticed an immediate change in your ability to chew food. Your molars are designed for mastication, which means to crush and grind your food, and without them meals will become more of a chore than an enjoyment. Here are 7 reasons why you should consider replacing your missing molars with dental implants as soon as possible.
Your Facial Structure Will Change
Missing teeth in any position eventually lead to bone loss in the area that once supported the root of the missing tooth. This is a natural occurrence triggered by the lack of pressure that would have otherwise been present on the jaw bone. Gradually, your facial structure will shrink and your cheeks may begin to appear sunken. Losing teeth means losing years off your appearance unless you do something to replace them.
The Surrounding Teeth Will Tip into the Space
Teeth don't like to be surrounded by space. Missing molars leave large gaps in your dental arches--gaps that need to be filled. Thus, it is the natural tendency of your teeth to lean towards any spaces left by missing teeth. This will not only alter your bite making it difficult to chew, but it will also cause your teeth to bunch together, making them difficult to clean.
The Roots of Your Other Teeth Will Weaken
You will naturally need to chew your food with your other teeth, your premolars, canines and incisors. Unfortunately, these teeth are not designed to chew food. They are primarily designed to cut and tear. Using these teeth to chew will eventually loosen their roots. Likewise, using teeth that are not designed for chewing on things like steak, nuts and candy, will weaken them and eventually cause them to fracture.
You Will Have to Limit Your Diet
Chewing certain foods without molars will be difficult and at times unbearable. Chewing nuts with just your front teeth would take forever and leave your jaw tired and overworked.
Your Digestion May Suffer as a Result
Molars help you to crush your food into easily digestible chunks. Without molars, you may not be able to crush your food in this way unless you chew for much longer. During dinner parties and family dinners, being the last person sitting there still struggling to chew your food might cause you to rush and swallow larger chunks. This will lead to problems with your digestion.
If you have recently lost a molar or are missing several molars, consider speaking to a cosmetic dentist about your options. Dental implants can give you back your chewing confidence and comfort, and help you to enjoy whatever food you wish to eat without worrying about how you are going to chew it
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