It can be embarrassing, and even frightening, to lose a tooth. Accidents, disease, poor dental care – there are many reasons why a tooth can fall out. If you do lose a tooth, remember this rule: don’t panic!
“No matter what the reason may be, if you lose a tooth, it is important to replace it as soon as possible to prevent serious dental problems,” says Dr. Dennis Ikuta, a Reedley, California cosmetic dentist. “Whether it is a dental bridge, dental implant, or dentures, there is a great cosmetic dentistry solution for your missing tooth or teeth.”
My Tooth Fell Out!
It’s not something most people think about. But when you accidentally lose a tooth, it becomes a very urgent matter. What do I do? Where should I go?
If you lose a tooth, you have about 30 minutes to get to a dentist in order to have a realistic chance of re-inserting it. (Note: If you can, put the tooth is a glass of milk as soon as possible.) However, be aware, even if you find a dentist right away, the chances of successfully re-inserting the tooth are not high. But don’t despair – people lose teeth all the time, and there are plenty of great replacement options for natural teeth.
Bridges can Fill the Gap
Dental bridges are used to fill the space in your smile caused by the missing tooth . A dental bridge is a replacement tooth that is fused to crowns on either side of the gap. Getting a dental bridge takes a few appointments. During the first appointment, the teeth on either side of the gap will be reshaped to accommodate dental crows.
Once the teeth have been reshaped, an impression is taken of the two teeth and the gap. This impression is sent a to a dental lab where the bridge is fabricated to match the size, shape, and color of you other teeth. Once the bridge returns from the dental lab, you will return to the dentist office so that it can be bonded in place.
Dental Implants: Good as New
A dental implant is a permanent replacement for a missing tooth . The artificial false tooth is called a pontic. It’s anchored to the dental implant, which is an artificial tooth root. The implant is inserted underneath your gum line. This is a surgical procedure, and requires anesthesia.
However, the good news is that the pontic is custom-created just for you, so it matches your existing teeth in size, shape and color. Once the pontic is inserted into the implant, it’s permanent, and you’ll treat it just as you would a natural tooth. With proper brushing and flossing, your new, artificial, tooth with last a lifetime.
Dentures: Another Alternative
Dentures are another way to replace missing teeth. Dentures are removable false teeth. They can be either full or partial – it all depends on how many teeth you’re missing. While most people prefer permanent dental implants, sometimes a patient’s jaw structure and mouth conditions lend themselves to being better for dentures.
Replace Missing Teeth A.S.A.P.
If you’re missing even just one tooth, your chance of subsequent dental infection increases dramatically. The open space in your mouth is a breeding ground for a host of bacteria. This bacteria can gather and cause infections.
So if you’re missing a tooth, it’s important to take the appropriate steps to fill those empty spaces. Finding a qualified cosmetic dentist is the best first step. Don’t let one missing tooth ruin your entire dental health!
