what if you dont replace missing tooth
dentalimplants
Teeth work as a team. Here's what can shift in your mouth if a missing tooth isn't replaced, and the options to fill the gap.
A missing tooth matters even if the gap doesn't show. Your teeth work as a team: each one helps hold its neighbours in place, and its root keeps the surrounding jawbone strong.
What can change after you lose a tooth
At first, a gap opens up. Over time, things can shift:
- Neighbouring teeth can tip into the space, and the tooth above can drift down into it.
- Your bite can change.
- Food gets trapped in new spaces, and tilted teeth are harder to clean, which can raise the risk of cavities and gum problems.
- Chewing on that side can get harder.
Why the jawbone can shrink
Bone stays strong when it's used. Tooth roots put the jawbone to work every time you chew. Without a root, the body slowly reabsorbs that bone. If it shrinks, there may be less bone available for an implant later, which can mean extra steps such as bone grafting.
Ways to replace a missing tooth
- Dental implant: replaces the root and the tooth without relying on the teeth next to it, and helps keep the bone in use. Our dental implants guide explains the process.
- Bridge: a false tooth held in place by crowns on the teeth beside the gap.
- Denture: a removable option that can replace one tooth or many.
How we help at Morgan Heights Dental Centre
We check the bone with Cone Beam 3D imaging before planning. Implants are placed by Dr. Anthony Wong, an implant surgeon and AAID Fellow. We also offer crowns and bridges and dentures, including immediate dentures and flippers made on our in-house 3D printer.
We explain each option, with costs and timing, before you decide, and our front desk walks you through what your insurance covers before treatment.
Missing a tooth? Let's talk about your options. We welcome patients from South Surrey and White Rock at 2245 160 Street, Unit 40, Surrey.