Tooth loss has at least one obvious aesthetic consequence; people are likely to notice the gaps in your smile. However, there is another major way in which missing teeth could affect the way you look. In fact, it could change the entire shape of your face! How does that happen, and is there any way to prevent it? This blog post explains what you should know.
Tooth Loss and Jawbone Deterioration
Each time you bite and chew, the roots of your natural teeth stimulate the bone and signal your body to maintain bone tissue in that area. When teeth go missing, that stimulation is no longer present. Therefore, a biological process known as resorption starts to occur. Essentially, this means that the jawbone starts to shrink.
As your jawbone deteriorates, you might notice that your face takes on a sunken or collapsed appearance. The loss of bone structure can change your facial proportions, making your chin look more prominent and your cheeks appear hollow. This process, known as facial collapse, can make you look years older than you are. If you lose multiple teeth, the effects on your facial appearance and oral health can grow more pronounced with each passing year.
Tooth Loss and Your Skin
The effects of tooth loss extend beyond the bone. Your teeth and jawbone support the soft tissues of your face, including your lips and cheeks. When teeth are missing and bone is lost, your skin loses some of its structural support. This can result in sagging skin, wrinkles, and a decrease in facial volume. You may see new lines forming around your mouth, and your lips might look thinner or collapse inward. You may give the impression that you are always scowling, even when you are in a perfectly pleasant mood.
How to Prevent Facial Collapse with Dental Implants
Facial collapse might sound scary, but the good news is that it can be prevented! After a thorough evaluation, your dentist may recommend that you get dental implants. Unlike traditional dentures, which rest on the gums and do not stimulate the bone, dental implants are inserted directly into the jawbone. They act as artificial tooth roots, providing the necessary stimulation to keep your jawbone healthy and strong.
They offer additional benefits as well, including:
- A strong bite that can stand up to virtually any food.
- Natural-looking prosthetic teeth.
- Durable tooth replacement that has the potential to last for decades.
- Stabilization and support for your remaining natural teeth.
Facial collapse is a serious consequence of tooth loss, but it does not have to happen! Talk to your dentist about how you can maintain a youthful appearance with the help of dental implants.
Meet the Practice
At The Center for Advanced Dentistry in Beachwood, our team is proud to offer start-to-finish dental implant services. We recognize the dire consequences of tooth loss, and we wish to help patients regain as much function and confidence as possible via high-quality tooth replacement. To learn more about how we may be able to serve you, contact our office at 216-595-1710.