Dr. Glenn LeSueur at Drs of Smiles in Mesa helps patients understand their tooth replacement options, including dental bridges and dental implants. Dr. LeSueur is trained in implant placement and brings LVI training to his work in cosmetic and neuromuscular dental care.
Teeth Can Shift Into the Open Space
Your teeth depend on neighboring teeth for support. When a tooth is missing, the teeth beside the gap may slowly tilt or drift. The tooth above or below the gap may also move because it no longer meets an opposing tooth when you bite.
These changes can create new spaces, crowding, and uneven contact between teeth. Over time, your bite may start to feel different, and cleaning between the shifted teeth can become harder.
Your Bite May Carry Pressure Unevenly
A complete set of teeth helps spread chewing pressure across your mouth. Missing teeth, on the other hand, can force your other teeth to take on extra work. This added pressure may contribute to worn enamel, sore teeth, cracked restorations, or discomfort while chewing.
You may also start favoring one side of your mouth. That habit can strain the muscles you use to chew and affect how your jaw moves.
Missing Teeth Can Affect Your Jaw Health
The roots of your teeth stimulate the jawbone when you bite and chew. After tooth loss, the bone in that area no longer receives the same stimulation. Bone changes can affect the shape of the jaw and the support for nearby teeth.
A changing bite can also place stress on the jaw joints. Not everyone with a missing tooth develops jaw pain, but bite imbalance can be one factor in soreness, clicking, fatigue, or tension.
Replacement Options Can Help Restore Function
Tooth replacement is not only cosmetic. A dental bridge can fill the space by using nearby teeth for support. A dental implant replaces a missing tooth root with a post that can support a crown, bridge, or denture, depending on your needs.
Dr. LeSueur can evaluate the gap, your bite, and your surrounding teeth to recommend a plan that helps restore function.
Talk About Tooth Replacement in Mesa
If you leave a gap untreated, it may make your future dental care more complicated. For tooth replacement guidance in Mesa, AZ, schedule a consultation with Dr. Glenn LeSueur at Drs of Smiles or call 480-834-6991.