What Are the Risks of Missing Teeth?

As you age, you are more prone to tooth loss. The primary contributing factor is poor oral hygiene and poor diet, which increases the risk of gum disease. As it progresses, gum disease can lead to tooth loss.

Some seniors assume that losing teeth is part of aging, so they do nothing to restore their smile. However, missing teeth can have consequences that go beyond aesthetics. Discover some long-term risks of ignoring lost teeth.

May Cause Bone Loss

When you lose a tooth, the bone that previously supported the tooth starts to deteriorate. The reason is that jaw bone relies on tooth root stimulation to maintain density. So when you lose a tooth, you also lose some of the bone in your jaw.

Consequently, your gums may start to recede. And the issue creates room for bacteria to enter and cause infections. So, losing a tooth can mark the start of a domino effect that leads to other dental problems.

May Cause Teeth to Shift

Another risk of missing teeth is that your remaining teeth may start to shift. The reason is that empty space creates a void that your other teeth will naturally try to fill. As a result, your teeth can become crooked or crowded.

Moreover, shifting teeth can make it difficult to bite and speak properly. The problem can also stress your gum tissue and remaining teeth, leading to further dental problems.

May Compromise Your Ability to Chew Properly

When you lose teeth in the back of your mouth, it can be especially difficult to chew tough or chewy foods. Unfortunately, this issue may cause digestive problems such as acid reflux and constipation. You may also have to give up on certain foods, which increases the chances of malnutrition.

May Cause Heart Disease

Missing teeth is not just a matter of oral health — it can also affect your overall health. For example, research suggests that there may be a link between gum disease and heart disease. Missing teeth increase your odds of developing gum disease.

The reason is that bacteria from your mouth can more easily enter your bloodstream and travel to your heart, where it can cause infections. What's more, inflammation caused by gum disease has also been linked to an increased risk of heart disease.

May Ruin Your Sleep

Surprisingly, missing teeth can also affect your sleep. First, if you are in pain, perhaps due to an infection or gum disease, you may stay awake longer. Quality sleep requires comfortable and deep sleep, but if you are tossing and turning all night, you will not be able to reap its benefits.

In addition, missing teeth can also cause obstructive sleep apnea. The reason is that when you lose teeth, your jawbone can collapse. This problem can cause your tongue to fall back and block your airway. As a result, you may start snoring loudly or stop breathing for short periods during sleep — which can disrupt your sleep and lead to fatigue during the day.

May Ruin Your Facial Structure

The teeth are the main support system for your face. And when they are not there, your facial muscles can sag. And although old age will cause your skin to wrinkle and sag anyway, missing teeth can speed up the process.

Seniors should not take risks with their teeth. Missing teeth will not just put their oral health at risk — it can also affect their overall health in many ways. Luckily, you have numerous options to replace missing teeth, such as dentures and dental implants. Talk to your dentist to find out which option is best for you.

You can trust us at AQ Denture and Dental Implant Center to help you with your oral health needs. We have extensive experience helping seniors with their teeth and oral health. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.