If you've recently lost a permanent tooth and you've decided to just leave the space empty, you need to rethink that decision. There are a number of reasons why you should have the tooth replaced with a dental implant. If the loss of your tooth was due to gum disease, there's also several reasons why you should begin treatment for that, as well. Here are four reasons why you need to take tooth loss seriously.

Significant Loss of Bone Structure

If you've lost a permanent tooth, you've already begun the process of losing bone density as well. The bone in your jaw begins to deteriorate as soon as you experience tooth loss. The longer you wait to have the tooth replaced, the more significant the bone loss becomes. Unfortunately, the loss of bone also increases the risk that you'll lose additional teeth. To protect the remaining bone in your jaw, you need to talk to your dentist about an implant right away.

Shifting of Surrounding Teeth

When you have all your teeth, they work together to hold each other in place. As soon as one tooth is lost, the remaining teeth begin to shift. Unfortunately, they'll continue to shift until they find the next closest tooth. Shifting teeth pose a variety of problems for you. First, they make it difficult to clean your teeth properly, which increases your risk of tooth decay and bad breath. Second, they change the shape of your jaw and your face. Finally, shifting teeth interfere with your ability to speak and chew properly. A dental implant will hold the surrounding teeth in place so you can avoid the complications.

Increased Risk of Premature Death

If you've decided to just ignore the lost tooth, and forego treatment for your gum disease, you should know that you're putting yourself at risk for premature death. Studies show that losing more than five teeth before the age of 65, increases your risk of premature death. Unfortunately, as described below, untreated gum disease and the loss of just one tooth, increases the likelihood that you'll lose additional teeth in the future. Protect your health and your teeth by obtaining treatment for your gum disease, and having your lost tooth replaced with a dental implant.

Loss of Self-Esteem

If you've lost a permanent tooth, and the loss is visible when you smile or speak, you may suffer from a loss of self-esteem. That's because it's hard to be confident about yourself when you have missing teeth. Dental implants will help you regain your self-esteem and your confidence.

For more information, reach out to a dental implant professional near you.