How Does A Missing Tooth Affect The Surrounding Gum And Jawbone Structure?
Are you wondering what happens to your gum and jawbone when a tooth is missing? Let’s explore the changes that occur in your mouth after a tooth is extracted and why taking action to preserve your dental structure is important.
What Happens After a Tooth is Removed?
When a tooth is extracted, your body’s natural healing process kicks in to close the extraction socket. While this healing is important, it can lead to some unwanted changes. Without a tooth in place, the gum and bone that supported the tooth start to shrink and collapse into the empty socket. Over time, this causes a noticeable reduction in the vertical and horizontal volume of the bone and gums, leaving an indentation where the tooth used to be.
The Impact on Surrounding Teeth and Gum Line
As the bone and gum continue to shrink, the changes can extend beyond the area where the tooth was removed. The gum line can recede, impacting the support of the teeth surrounding the missing one. This weakening of support can cause the neighbouring teeth to shift, increasing the likelihood of misalignment or gaps forming between the teeth.
In addition, these changes can affect the appearance of your smile. As the gum and bone lose volume, it may lead to a “sunken” look in the face, especially if multiple teeth are missing. The loss of bone structure can reduce the overall support for your facial features, contributing to a prematurely aged appearance.
Preserving Your Gum and Jawbone Structure
To prevent these long-term effects, it’s crucial to plan for the preservation of your gum and jawbone after a tooth extraction. One of the most effective ways to do this is through dental implants, which replace the missing tooth and provide continued stimulation to the bone, helping to maintain its structure. However, even if you’re not ready for an implant right away, there are other options to consider, such as bone grafting or socket preservation, which can help maintain the bone and gum tissue until you’re ready for a permanent solution.

Why Proactive Planning Matters
Taking a proactive approach to preserve your gum and jawbone isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about maintaining the overall health and stability of your mouth. By keeping the bone and gum structure intact, you help ensure that the remaining teeth stay in place and function properly. This can prevent further dental complications down the road, such as misalignment, difficulty chewing, or increased wear on your remaining teeth.
Let Us Help You Find the Right Solution
If you have a missing tooth and are considering your options for replacement, it’s important to speak with a dentist about preserving your gum and jawbone structure. At Pitt St Dental Centre, we’re here to guide you through the best solutions to protect your oral health and keep your smile looking and feeling its best.
Simply fill out our enquiry form or give us a call to organise a complimentary consultation. We’ll work with you to develop a treatment plan that fits your needs and helps maintain your gum and jawbone health.
The content has been made available for informational and educational purposes only. Pitt Street Dental Centre does not make any representation or warranties with respect to the accuracy, applicability, fitness, or completeness of the content.
The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional personal diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your dentist or another qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a dental or medical condition. Never disregard professional advice or delay seeking it because of something you have read or seen on the Site.
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