By Dr. Keerthi Sudireddy
It is tempting to leave a missing tooth, especially a back one, but a gap rarely stays just a gap. Over time it can cause a chain of problems.
Quick answer
Leaving a missing tooth unreplaced leads to jawbone shrinkage where the tooth was, neighbouring teeth drifting and tilting into the gap, the opposite tooth over-erupting, bite changes, and a higher risk of decay and gum problems. Replacing it with an implant, bridge or denture prevents these issues. Acting sooner keeps options simpler.
What can happen over time
- Bone loss in the gap area.
- Neighbouring teeth tilting and drifting.
- The opposing tooth over-erupting.
- Bite changes, jaw strain, and harder cleaning.
Your options
An implant, bridge or denture restores the gap. Replacing early avoids needing bone grafts later.
Book an assessment at The Tooth Studio.
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