The Real Dentist Behind Ed Helms’ Missing Tooth in The Hangover — Dr. Laurence Rifkin

When The Hangover hit theaters in 2009, audiences everywhere were shocked — and laughing — when Stu (played by Ed Helms) woke up missing a front tooth after a wild night in Las Vegas. Many assumed it was movie magic or CGI.

But here’s the truth: that missing tooth was 100% real.

Ed Helms was actually missing a permanent tooth since childhood, and had a dental implant in its place. For the movie, rather than relying on prosthetics or special effects, Helms’ real dentist, Dr. Laurence Rifkin, temporarily removed the implant to create the most authentic look possible.

Dr. Rifkin, a renowned cosmetic and reconstructive dentist based in Beverly Hills, ensured that the procedure was completely safe and reversible. The implant was reattached after filming wrapped — and Helms’s now-famous smile was fully restored.

This behind-the-scenes detail became one of Hollywood’s most fascinating bits of dental trivia, blending cinematic creativity with real-world dentistry.

It’s a perfect example of how collaboration between art, medicine, and storytelling can create unforgettable movie moments — and it shows the trust actors place in their healthcare professionals to make movie magic look effortless.

So next time you rewatch The Hangover and see Stu staring at his reflection in shock — know that moment was made possible not by CGI, but by the skilled hands of Dr. Laurence Rifkin, the real-life dentist behind the scene.