35 ANS D’EXPÉRIENCE
VOS
DENTISTES SUR
LE PLATEAU MONT-ROYAL
Notre clinique se distingue à Montréal en étant une pionnière dans l’utilisation des technologies. En plus d’une gestion des dossiers patients sans papier, celles-ci nous permettent de prodiguer des soins confortablement, rapidement et avec une grande précision.
One might assume that missing teeth only cause aesthetic concerns. However, this is not the case. When missing teeth are not replaced in the short- or medium-term, they can lead to several complications. Below, we explore these risks to help you understand the importance of replacing missing teeth.
Although less common than in the past, some adults still lose teeth due to untreated oral diseases, trauma, and other factors. Several situations can lead to the irreversible loss of natural teeth:
Periodontitis is an advanced stage of gum disease that affects all the tissues supporting the teeth. It is the leading cause of permanent tooth loss among Canadian adults.
In the past, extraction was often preferred over treatment, and preventive and restorative care was not as advanced. As a result, many older adults have missing teeth.
Without early intervention, decay can spread to the centre of the tooth, where the nerves and blood vessels are located (dental pulp). Infection of the pulp can lead to complications such as an abscess or nerve necrosis. In more severe cases, the tooth cannot be saved and must be extracted.
A blow to the face, a fall, or an accident can cause the loss of one or more teeth.
A full set of 28 teeth (or 32 with wisdom teeth) forms a stable mechanical balance. Teeth stay in position thanks to their neighbouring teeth and the opposing tooth in the other jaw, known as the antagonist. The loss of even one tooth can disrupt this balance.
When a tooth is missing, the remaining teeth may shift to fill the empty space. This can lead to the gradual misalignment of the dentition.
Unwanted movement of the remaining teeth may occur, leading to more pronounced spaces between teeth.
The empty space left by the missing tooth, combined with the misalignment of adjacent teeth, can trap plaque and bacteria. Tartar may also accumulate, increasing the risk of cavities and gum disease.
For each tooth lost, the chewing efficiency of two teeth is affected. The opposing tooth no longer has a surface to contact.
The remaining teeth must work harder during chewing, exposing them to the risk of premature wear.
