Although having to have a tooth extracted can be frightening, this procedure is frequently required to preserve your overall oral health. In the event that you need tooth extractions, you might be concerned about the consequences of this procedure down the road. Many people are aware that losing a tooth can have an impact on your facial structure. Although this is conceivable, the truth is a little more nuanced. Consult Thorton adult dentist to learn more.
What can tooth extractions cause to your facial shape?
The roots of your teeth penetrate deep into your upper jaw, encompassing portions of your nose and eye sockets. Your dentist in a nearby dental office must remove all roots when extracting a tooth. Your face shape may change following a tooth extraction because your teeth’s roots are an essential component of your facial structure.
There are precautions you can take to lessen the likelihood that you will experience changes in your facial structure if you discover that you require a tooth extraction but are concerned about the potential effects.
Why do facial changes happen?
The roots of your teeth are a vital component of your facial structure, as was previously mentioned. The area of your jaw where the tooth was removed remodels itself to make room for the new structure. This refers to the tooth’s location where the gum line & bone gradually recede.
While it is a distinct possibility, it is essential to remember that not everyone will notice a change in facial structure following a tooth extraction. A lower tooth extraction may accentuate an underbite or cause asymmetry, while an upper tooth extraction may cause some areas of the face to appear sunken in.
Things you can do to reduce the risk of changes in your face
Before having teeth extracted nearby, it is a good idea to discuss post-extraction options with your dentist. Here are a few typical choices:
- Bone grafts
- dental bridges
- dental implants
Dentists frequently advise bone grafts after tooth extractions. A bone graft helps reduce the likelihood of bone recession by stimulating the production of more bone in your jaw.
Your dentist could also suggest a dental implant to replace the lost tooth. In order to stimulate the jaw in the same way that a natural tooth would & stop bone loss, dental implants combine an artificial tooth root with a replacement tooth.
If dental implants are not an option for you, you might be a candidate for dental bridges, in which case a dental crown is used to affix an artificial tooth to the natural teeth surrounding the gap.
