What to do About a Missing Tooth

It’s normal to feel self-conscious about a missing tooth, but if one of your pearly whites is gone, you’re not alone. While your teeth are meant to last, at least 120 million Americans are missing at least one tooth. 

Many different factors can lead to a missing tooth, from a lack of preventive dental care to poor oral hygiene to injury or disease. For many people, the cosmetic impact of a missing tooth is top of mind. But having a missing tooth can cause problems with eating and increases your chances of developing other serious oral conditions.

If you’re missing a tooth, schedule a dental exam as soon as possible. At Robert F. Wilcox, DMD, PC, in Butte, Montana, Dr. “Bob” Wilcox and our caring team are committed to helping our patients repair their smiles and maintain good oral health with restorative dental care.

We’ve put together this helpful guide to help you learn what to do about a missing tooth. Read on for more information.   

Why is a missing tooth problematic?

The first thing that pops into most people’s minds when they lose a tooth is the way it affects their appearance. Everyone agrees that a beautiful smile is good for your self-confidence, but a missing tooth can also lead to changes in your facial appearance since your teeth support the shape and structure of your face. 

And when it comes to a missing tooth, there are also serious health conditions to consider. A missing tooth can be problematic because of the oral health problems associated with it, including:

• Changes to your bite, which can affect the way you talk and eat
• Jaw misalignment, which can lead to painful jaw strain  
• Shifting and movement in the remaining teeth
• Bone loss, which can lead to more loss of teeth
• Gaps and pockets, which can trap food and compromise dental hygiene 
• Increased risk of oral infection and gum disease, which can lead to serious health problems, including heart disease

What can I do about a missing tooth?

If you want to avoid oral health and medical complications, be sure to seek professional dental care if you have a missing tooth. At Robert F. Wilcox, DMD, PC, we offer several options to consider when a tooth falls out. Dr. Wilcox works with you to find the best solution for your unique situation. 

Some possible solutions for a missing tooth or teeth include:

• Dentures
• Dental bridges
• Dental implants

In some instances, Dr. Wilcox can preserve a tooth through the use of ceramic crowns. Crowns are customized dental caps designed to fit over your existing tooth. Dr. Wilcox uses them to strengthen your damaged or decayed teeth as well as improve the appearance of your smile.  

Where can I find help for my missing tooth?

We’re committed to improving the oral health and overall well-being of our patients. If you're missing a tooth and live in the Butte, Montana, area, schedule a consultation to discuss your best options. 

Don’t wait. The best options for a missing tooth are available with early care. Contact our Butte office for more information or to book an appointment.