Conditions Causing Missing Teeth

By Atwood Advanced Dentistry – Grand Junction, CO

Missing teeth can affect more than just your smile—they impact how you chew, speak, and even how your jawbone ages over time. While trauma and decay are common reasons for tooth loss, some people are born with conditions that prevent certain teeth from developing at all.

At Atwood Advanced Dentistry, we specialize in helping patients with all forms of missing teeth, including those caused by genetic and developmental conditions. Let’s explore why some people are missing teeth and how modern dentistry can offer long-lasting solutions.

Genetic and Developmental Causes of Missing Teeth

While tooth loss due to accidents or dental disease is well understood, many people are surprised to learn that congenital conditions can also be to blame. Here are some of the most common disorders linked to missing teeth:

1. Hypodontia

Hypodontia is a condition where one to six permanent teeth simply never develop. This is one of the most common dental developmental abnormalities and often affects the second premolars, lateral incisors, or wisdom teeth. It can be inherited and may run in families.

2. Oligodontia

A more severe form of hypodontia, oligodontia refers to the absence of six or more permanent teeth. It is often associated with genetic syndromes and can lead to significant spacing issues, bite problems, and aesthetic concerns.

3. Anodontia

Anodontia is a rare condition in which all permanent teeth are missing. This is often part of a genetic disorder known as ectodermal dysplasia, which affects the development of skin, hair, nails, and teeth.

4. Ectodermal Dysplasia

This genetic disorder not only causes missing teeth but also affects the shape of the teeth that do develop. Teeth may appear cone-shaped or peg-like. Patients with ectodermal dysplasia often require extensive dental work to restore function and aesthetics.

5. Cleft Lip and Palate

Congenital cleft conditions can interfere with normal tooth development, especially in the upper jaw. Teeth may be missing, misaligned, or malformed.

Treatment Options for Missing Teeth

Whether you're missing one tooth or several due to a medical condition, Dr. Atwood and our team at Atwood Advanced Dentistry are here to help. As a prosthodontist, Dr. Atwood specializes in restoring smiles using advanced techniques and custom solutions.

🔹 Dental Implants

Dental implants are the gold standard for tooth replacement. They look, feel, and function like natural teeth and help preserve the jawbone by replacing the tooth root. Implants can be used for single teeth or as part of larger restorations.

🔹 Implant-Supported Bridges

If you’re missing multiple teeth in a row, an implant-supported bridge may be a great option. It offers excellent stability and durability while minimizing the number of implants needed.

🔹 All-on-Four® or Implant Dentures

Patients missing all or most of their teeth may benefit from All-on-Four or implant-retained dentures. These provide a secure, natural-looking solution without the slipping or discomfort of traditional dentures.

🔹 Custom Dentures and Partial Dentures

For those who are not candidates for implants, Dr. Atwood creates high-quality, natural-looking dentures and partials that restore your ability to speak and eat comfortably.

Restore Your Confidence—and Your Smile

Living with missing teeth can affect every part of your life, from your self-confidence to your nutrition. The good news is that you don’t have to settle. At Atwood Advanced Dentistry in Grand Junction, we’re experts in diagnosing complex cases and crafting personalized solutions that last.

✅ Call us today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Atwood.

Let’s take the first step toward restoring your smile with care you can trust.