What Happens If You Don’t Replace a Missing Tooth?

What Happens If You Don’t Replace a Missing Tooth?

Losing a tooth can feel like something you can put off dealing with, especially if the gap is hidden at the back. However, when a gap appears at the front, it can be a real confidence-knocker. Not only that, but when you don’t fill the gap, things can start to change in ways many don’t expect.

3 in 4 people in the UK have had at least one tooth removed, and while you might think that it just leaves a hole behind that never changes, that’s not completely true. That’s why missing teeth are seen by dentists in Manchester and beyond as more than just cosmetic.

In this blog, we take a closer look at what happens when you don’t replace a missing tooth and the available treatments to restore your smile confidence.

What Happens When You Lose a Tooth?

When you lose a tooth, it doesn’t just leave a space behind and stay that way for good. Instead, the surrounding teeth and structures start to respond, slowly but surely. So slowly, in fact, that the changes are almost imperceptible to everyone apart from your dentist. 

In those first few days after having an extraction or an injury that knocks it out, things will likely feel quite normal. You can still eat, talk and get on with your day, but as shown below, if left, things will start to change.

It’s worth reiterating that none of this is going to happen in an instant. As long as you do something about it within a reasonable amount of time, you can avoid a lot of the problems associated with losing a tooth.

What Can a Dentist Do About a Lost Tooth?

Losing a tooth doesn’t necessarily mean you’re forever stuck with a gap, as there are things your dentist can do about it. The treatment recommended will depend on where the missing tooth is and how much it’s bothering you in terms of how it looks and what it’s like when chewing.

The options vary quite a bit in terms of cost, how involved the treatment is, and how permanent the result is, so there’s no single right answer. A dentist will look at your specific situation and work out what makes sense.

Let’s take a look at what can be done.

Dental Implants

With both single tooth or multi-tooth implants, a small titanium post goes into the jaw and acts as a new root, with a dental crown fitted on top. It doesn’t put pressure on surrounding teeth and helps keep the bone in that area intact.

It tends to feel the most natural option long term, but that does mean it takes longer. You can find out more about how much the treatment costs and more here.

Dental Bridges

Our next option for filling a gap in your teeth is the dental bridge. Anchored to the teeth on either side of the hole, bridges are much quicker than implants and work well for more visible teeth at the front.

Not sure whether a bridge or dental implant is the right option? Our article compares the two to help you decide.

Dentures

If you don’t mind something you can take in and out each day, a removable denture can be a suitable option. They’re often the most practical and affordable route when multiple teeth are missing. That said, they can take a bit of getting used to.

Leaving the Gap

If the tooth you’ve lost is at the back and not causing you any problems, your dentist might suggest you leave the gap as it is. Naturally, if this is the path you take, your dentist will keep a close eye on how your remaining teeth and gums react in the weeks and months to come.

The right choice comes down to your situation, and a conversation with your dentist will lead you to the right option for your specific needs. Got a cracked or broken tooth instead? Read here to learn about your options.

Missing a Tooth in Manchester? Let’s Get it Sorted

If you’ve lost a tooth, it’s easy to put off doing anything, especially if it’s not in an obvious place. But as you’ve seen, even a single gap can start to affect more than just how your smile looks, impacting how you speak and eat each day.

At Ringway Dental, this is something we help patients with every day. Whether it’s a recent tooth loss or something you’ve been putting off for a while, we can help you make the right decision for your smile.

The first thing to do about it is to get in touch or book online. We’ll show you from start to finish why we’re the best in the city.

FAQs

Q – Is it OK to leave a missing tooth if it’s at the back?

A – It can feel like it doesn’t matter, but even back teeth play a role in how you chew and how your bite fits together. Given enough time, the nearby teeth may start to lean into the gap, leading to bigger issues.

Q – What happens to the bone when a tooth is missing?

A – The jawbone in that area starts to shrink because it’s no longer being used. This isn’t something you’ll notice, but it can affect how your teeth sit and make replacement more difficult later on.

Q – Will the gap close on its own?

A – No. Teeth don’t move in neatly to fill a gap. Instead, they tend to drift or tilt into the space, which can leave things looking uneven and harder to clean.

Q – What’s the easiest way to replace a missing tooth?

A – It depends on the situation, but for many people it comes down to three options: implants, bridges, or dentures.

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