If you have missing teeth, then you may want to get them replaced to improve your biting ability and appearance. When you replace missing teeth, your other teeth will remain strong and you will be able to eat and speak clearly.

Why you should replace missing teeth

Missing teeth can have a significant impact on your daily life. It may affect your health, your overall appearance and self-confidence. Teeth play an important part in our general well being.

The inside story of molars, incisors, bone and gums

Each tooth has an important role as it helps us chew our food. They help you to talk clearly and they improve your smile. Children begin with 20 milk teeth that get replaced by 32 permanent teeth over time.

Main reasons for missing teeth

• Your tooth nerve may die – Plaque forms on the teeth and bacteria will transform sugar in your diet into acids. In turn, these acids dissolve the protective enamel. This may damage teeth by creating holes and if it is not treated properly, the nerve in your tooth may die.
• You have inflamed gums – Your gums are made of ligaments and tissue that keep the teeth stable. They are protective shields for tooth roots and stimulate the jaw bone to grow around your tooth. When bacteria cause gum inflammation, the ligaments will be lost. The gum will then pull back and the bone around the tooth will reduce. This gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, exposes sensitive tooth roots and loosens teeth eventually causing them to be lost.
• You have had an accident – If you play sports, then accidents may cause one or more teeth to be lost. The trauma may also cause loss of the jawbone and gums.
• Genetics – Some people are born with fewer teeth, and this is known as hypodontia.