Is It Important To Replace A Missing Back Tooth?

Tooth loss is one of the most common ailments affecting individuals today.  It is estimated that 120 million people have at least one missing tooth. While a missing front tooth is an obvious problem that most people are quick to address, missing back teeth do not seem to raise as much concern.  This blog discusses why it is important to replace a missing back tooth.

When a patient loses a tooth, the adjacent and opposing teeth can shift and move, and this can later create difficulty in replacing that tooth.  Studies have shown that patients with missing teeth have a decreased capacity to function and this can contribute to significant medical issues, including cardiovascular disease, digestive problems, diabetes and many other diseases. 

Studies have even shown a higher mortality rate among people with missing teeth.  Tooth replacement can be easily accomplished by a number of methods including removable dentures, fixed bridges and implant-supported restorations. 

 A Board Certified Prosthodontist is a specialist in the restoration and replacement of teeth and can provide all of the options available to address this important issue. 

Glenn J. Wolfinger, DMD, FACP
Board Certified Prosthodontist

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