Having missing teeth is a normal part of childhood, and can even be a little exciting. Especially if losing a tooth means getting to put it under your pillow to receive a visit from the tooth fairy. Toothless smiles are super cute in little kids. But what about missing teeth when you’re an adult? Or what about permanent teeth that just never come in?
Congenitally Missing Teeth
While most people have a full set of 32 teeth, there are some people who don’t develop all of their permanent teeth. This is a condition called hypodontia, and it’s actually more common than you might think! In fact, it’s one of the most common dental anomalies, and it affects between 2 to 8% of the population. Which teeth are missing can vary from person to person. Research has found that hypodontia is caused by both genetic and environmental factors, such as infection or trauma. If your child has lost their baby teeth but their adult teeth don’t seem to be coming in at the appropriate time, contact Hillstream Dental. It’s worth it to speak with a dentist to determine the best next steps to take care of their oral health and the alignment of their smile.
The Effects of Having Missing Teeth
If you’re missing one or more teeth, it can put a real damper on your smile. You may even feel like you want to cover up your mouth while you’re laughing or talking. However, having an incomplete smile has an effect on more than just your appearance. It can make it difficult to do everyday activities you never thought twice about before like chewing your food properly and even saying certain words. That’s why it’s always worth considering a tooth replacement option like a dental bridge or a dental implant.
Tooth Replacement Options at Hillstream Dental
Dealing with missing teeth? Come visit Hillstream Dental at either our Rochester Hills or St. Clair Shores location. Our knowledgeable team would be happy to discuss what your options are for tooth replacement. It’s our goal to get you to a beautiful and healthy smile you’ll be proud to show off!
