When a child loses a baby tooth, there is no need to be concerned because it will be replaced by a permanent adult tooth.
However, if a permanent tooth falls or is knocked out of your mouth, it is considered a dental emergency.
If treatment is immediate, there is a chance that the tooth can be replanted. In addition, if left unattended, there is a risk of developing an infection in the socket of the tooth.
Fractured or broken teeth can also become dental emergencies by putting you at risk of infection.
While you might be tempted to go to a hospital emergency room, you will most likely be sent to a dental expert who can make an accurate assessment and diagnosis of the damage and discuss treatment options with you.
If you have ever lost a tooth, you probably understand the many problems it causes to your mouth's health.
Eating certain foods can be challenging, and most of the time, you will avoid smiling because you do not like the way you look.
Teeth help us chew and speak clearly. If you are missing one or more teeth, the surrounding teeth begin to move.
Eventually, you can end up with bite problems because your teeth will no longer line up correctly.
Besides, gum tissue and bone under your missing tooth can cause the surrounding teeth to weaken and start to deteriorate, leading to further tooth loss.
Luckily, there are several options available to replace missing teeth. But which one is right for you? We will show you the six most common options and the benefits of each.
Replacing the missing tooth could involve a dental Implant procedure. This procedure places an artificial root (screw) in the jawbone that is covered with a porcelain crown.
Implants offer one of the best options for restoring functionality, comfort, and aesthetics.
When implants are put in place, the surrounding teeth are not disturbed. Implants are known for their excellent durability; they can last for decades.
However, you should bear in mind that healthy and adequate bone tissue is required for dental implants, so they are not suitable for everyone.
A fixed bridge looks and functions like natural teeth and is another option. Fixed bridges are artificial teeth that are attached to the surrounding teeth.
The dentist uses a natural tooth or teeth to hold the bridge in place using cement. Only a dentist can remove them.
Since the bridge is permanently in place, it does not need to be removed for cleaning and can't move out of place. Also, from a budget perspective, a fixed bridge costs less than dental implants.
Another alternative is a complete set of new (artificial) teeth, upper or lower, that form a replacement prosthesis.
When it is necessary to replace all upper or lower teeth, dentures are typically the least expensive option.
They are removable for easy brushing, cleaning, and repairs. Dentures made from modern materials look very natural and can work just like your own teeth.
When there are one or more remaining natural teeth in the upper or lower jaw, partial dentures or removable bridges are the preferred treatment.
Partial dentures are replacements for a dental piece designed to fit between the remaining natural teeth as if they were a puzzle.
The teeth to be replaced are attached to a gum-colored plastic base, which in turn is anchored to the remaining natural teeth through a small metal closure so that the partial dental prosthesis is fixed to the mouth.
“Dental "Flipper" is a nickname for partial dentures used to replace missing teeth and is specifically designed for each patient's unique tooth structure.
Flippers are entirely removable, which makes them extremely easy to replace if necessary.
The naturalness and versatility of flippers make them a highly recommended option. When you first see them, they look no different from a regular tooth.
You can also incorporate them into most gaps. However, the material flippers are made of is not exceptionally durable. Patients often must go to the dentist to fix any rupture or malformation.
A dental crown is a fixed prosthesis placed on a tooth, although they can also go on implants.
They cover the tooth's entire surface and behave like a natural tooth, fulfilling all the aesthetic and chewing functions that the patient needs.
Crowns can be made of different materials which are always tailored to the tooth on which you place them and mimic the shape and color of the patient's teeth.
If you have a tooth missing, it is not advisable to leave the space open even though many people do not have a problem.
Over time, this space can allow the other teeth to move and can cause bite problems.
Please take advantage of these six alternatives that we have explained to you, consult with your dentist, and then select the best option for your needs.
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