Missing teeth is one of the most common developmental problems in children, with permanent teeth being more likely to be among the missing than primary teeth. This inherited tendency often involves lateral incisors, second premolars, and third molars. When a missing tooth creates a gap in the dental arch, not only does this present a problem in terms of aesthetics, but it also poses a functional problem that is likely to lead to malocclusion. The failure of individual third molars to appear is usually uneventful unless the opposing molars over-erupt. However, large gaps between primary or permanent teeth must be filled in order to avoid drifting of adjacent teeth or over-eruption of opposing teeth.
In order to restore the beauty, health, and function of the smile, patients are encouraged to replace missing teeth as soon as possible. At West Brookfield Dental, we are a highly qualified and experienced team of professionals. We’re located at 9 West Main St., West Brookfield, where our goal is to make each visit to our office a comfortable and positive experience. Call us at 508.867.2777.
P.S. Nearly 20% of the U.S. population has congenitally missing third molars, while 3.4% has missing second premolars, and 2.5% has missing upper lateral incisors.
