Approximately half of the adult population in the United States has some degree of periodontal disease or bone loss around their teeth. Statistically, the teeth that are lost first due to the progression of bone loss around them because of the presence of bacterial plaque are the upper (maxillary) back teeth, especially the molars. Although the loss of these teeth may not immediately cause cosmetic problems, this is our main chewing area, so losing these teeth can compromise our ability to chew correctly and consequently may impact proper digestion.
Above the upper back teeth on both sides is a hollow space called the maxillary sinus. It extends upward from the roots of the upper back teeth to just below the eye socket. We are not exactly sure why we have this space or what purpose it serves. In any case, they exist in all people.
When the back teeth are lost, it is a good idea to replace them. As mentioned above, the loss of these teeth can compromise proper chewing. Also, losing the back teeth can compromise the health of the front teeth by requiring them to do double duty (both cut the food we are eating and then grind and crush it as well). This can weaken the front teeth. Sometimes, the front teeth are used to support a removable replacement for the missing back teeth, which can undermine the front teeth and hasten their loss. In addition, although the loss of the back teeth may not be immediately visible, the cosmetic consequence is the loss of the natural height of the face as the chin comes closer to the nose. This leads to increased wrinkles and a prematurely aged appearance.
Each of our teeth plays an important role. What can we do if we lose our back teeth? The following article will discuss what can be done.