As dentists, we know how it goes: you lose a tooth but it doesn’t seem too bad. You know you’ll get it replaced at some point, but life becomes busy, and that seemingly essential appointment gets put off, and put off…

This is a more common scenario than you might think, but it’s still a big problem. And that’s because this isn’t just a gap – it’s the start of a chain reaction in your mouth. Here’s why doing nothing could cost you more in the long run (with some ideas for what you can do instead).

The domino effect of a missing tooth
When one of your teeth goes missing, the ones around it start to get a little nervous. We notice adjacent teeth shifting, and we’re far more likely to see bite misalignment and uneven wear. Because they’re no longer held in an unbroken line, these remaining teeth may even appear crooked or gappy. This isn’t just an aesthetic problem – it’s also an issue for our oral health.

And it’s not just your teeth that become affected. Without the stimulation it needs, the bone tissue in your jawbone can begin to deteriorate. You’ll also be at risk of potential gum problems and decay. In short, even a small gap can have a serious knock-on effect.

Long-term effects on health and confidence
Losing a tooth isn’t just a short-term problem. Alongside the discomfort you’ll experience in the aftermath of this happening, there are also long-term implications to weigh up. These include difficulties with speaking clearly and chewing; meaning your favourite foods may be off the menu for good. Worryingly, there’s also a link between poor oral health and wider health risks, such as cardiovascular disease. Increased bacteria and inflammation in your mouth have been proven to travel through the bloodstream, creating issues in organs such as your heart, lungs and brain.

We also shouldn’t discount the impact tooth loss has on wellbeing and self-image. Although this seems superficial, it’s often the repercussion that patients struggle with the most. Because missing teeth can affect your facial structure, they play a tangible role in premature ageing – without this supportive framework, your mouth and jaw can sag or appear shrunken. For this reason, many people experiencing tooth loss find it has a real impact on their social life and confidence.

Bridges, dentures, and their limitations
With all this in mind, you might be looking for a solution to that harmful gap. Bridges and dentures are both options, but neither is ideal. Dental bridges literally “bridge” the gap between your teeth by attaching a false tooth to the remaining teeth on either side. Dentures are prosthetic teeth – often multiple – that can be inserted and removed from the mouth. Both are reasonably quick and cost effective routes, which is why they’re commonly used.

However, dental bridges and dentures can’t address some of the key issues resulting from tooth loss. For instance, these solutions won’t prevent bone loss, which is likely to become a worsening situation over time. To fit a dental bridge, it’s often necessary to file your existing teeth, causing additional and avoidable damage.

Dentures and bridges are also likely to prompt hygiene challenges, as even the smallest gap between false teeth and an adjacent gum will trap food particles and plaque. And of course, it’s worth noting that these measures won’t last forever. Both require replacing over time: typically every five to ten years for dentures, and five to 15 years for a bridge.

Dental implants are the gold standard
For the best results – both now and in the longer term – we recommend dental implants. These are replacement teeth attached to a biocompatible titanium screw, which can be permanently placed in your jaw; essentially mimicking a real tooth. Individual implants are ideal if you’ve lost just one tooth, while multiple or full arch implants can be offered if you have several missing.

Unlike many dentures and bridges, implants are natural in appearance and function, becoming just another component of a healthy mouth. They also support this overall health by stimulating the jawbone in the same way as natural teeth, and helping to preserve the surrounding teeth. Dental implant treatment is painless and straightforward, but we also offer sedation for those feeling anxious.

Importantly, dental implants are a durable solution, making the procedure highly cost-effective in the long term. With good care, an implant will last as long as your natural teeth, with no need for future replacements.

Start getting help today
Although it’s tempting in the short term, ignoring a missing tooth can lead to more complex – and costly – issues. An implant consultation is quick and informative, and could help save your smile for life.

So, contact us today to book a free consultation or learn more. Our team will be happy to talk about our implant services and your options and costs, including finance.