Effects of Missing Teeth

Some of the symptoms of missing a tooth are:

• A gap or space in your smile
• Difficulty chewing or biting food
• Changes in your speech or pronunciation
• Shifting or drifting of adjacent teeth
• Bone loss or resorption in the jaw
• Changes in your facial appearance or structure
• Reduced self-confidence or self-esteem
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Causes of Missing a Tooth

Some of the causes of missing a tooth are:

• Gum disease: Gum disease is an infection and inflammation of the gums that can damage the tissues and bones that support the teeth. It can cause pockets to form between the gums and teeth, which can lead to tooth loss. Gum disease is usually caused by poor oral hygiene, smoking, diabetes, or other health conditions.
• Tooth decay: Tooth decay is the destruction of the hard outer layer of the tooth (enamel) by bacteria and acids. It can cause cavities or holes in the teeth, which can weaken them and make them more prone to breakage or extraction. Tooth decay is usually caused by consuming sugary or acidic foods and drinks, poor oral hygiene, dry mouth, or lack of fluoride.
• Injury: Injury is a physical trauma that can knock out or fracture a tooth. It can be caused by accidents, falls, sports, violence, or biting on hard objects. Injury can also damage the nerves and blood vessels in the tooth, which can affect its vitality and survival.
• Genetic condition: Genetic condition is a hereditary disorder that can affect the development and formation of the teeth. It can cause some teeth to be missing from birth (congenitally) or to fail to erupt from the gums (impacted). Some examples of genetic conditions that can cause missing teeth are cleft lip and palate, Down syndrome, ectodermal dysplasia, and hypodontia.

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