John Dillinger's missing tooth became an intriguing aspect of his legend. During his criminal career in the early 1930s, Dillinger's missing front tooth became a distinctive feature that often helped authorities and the public identify him. According to reports, he lost this tooth during a confrontation with police or during a scuffle in prison, depending on the source.

This missing tooth added to his image as a daring and defiant figure, emphasizing his run-ins with the law and his ability to evade capture. It also contributed to the folklore surrounding Dillinger, as it was a detail that people remembered and associated with his outlaw persona