Shifting of Surrounding Teeth: The teeth adjacent to the gap may start to shift into the empty space, causing misalignment or bite problems. Bone Loss: The jawbone in the area of the missing tooth may start to shrink over time, as the tooth's root is no longer stimulating the bone. This can weaken the structure of the jaw. Difficulty Chewing or Speaking: Depending on where the tooth is missing, it can affect your ability to chew certain foods or pronounce words clearly. Changes in Appearance: A missing tooth, especially in the front of the mouth, can affect the way you look, possibly leading to self-consciousness. Increased Risk of Gum Disease: Gaps left by missing teeth can make it harder to clean the teeth properly, potentially leading to an increased risk of gum disease and cavities in surrounding teeth. Common solutions for missing teeth include: Dental Implants: A permanent solution where a titanium post is inserted into the jawbone, topped with a crown. Dental Bridges: A prosthetic device that spans the gap created by a missing tooth, anchored to adjacent teeth.