Dental Restorations: What to Do if You Knock Out a Tooth

You have had problems with a tooth before. From cavities to chips or even to breaks, dentists can treat a variety of issues. What happens if you knock teeth out altogether? Even though it may seem that you will have to go on with an unsightly gap in your mouth, your dentist can solve this too. Every case is different, so your dentist will evaluate your condition to come up with the most effective treatment possible such as a dental restoration.

How it happens

Teeth are the strongest substances in the body, even stronger than bones. This does not mean they are invincible. Traumatic events and injuries can knock teeth out of a person’s mouth. Slips and falls are among the most common ways this can happen. Teeth also fall out by biting into hard food. People who play high-contact sports or who participate in adventurous activities can also experience this.

Bridges

This is a common dental restoration procedure that dentists perform for patients who are missing at least one tooth. In this process, the dentist will place a crown over adjacent natural teeth, which will serve as anchors. False teeth go in between to fill in the gaps. These teeth are usually made of porcelain and have the strength to help the patient chew normally.

Dentures

This is a possibility people can consider if they have lost a few, several or all of their teeth. This process starts with the dentist taking a mold of the person’s mouth and then sending it to a lab. There, a technician makes the dentures. These consist of false teeth and a metal base covered in plastic. There are both full and partial dentures, which the patient can remove for the convenience of cleaning or eating.

Implants

A dentist will surgically place titanium alloy implants into the patient’s jaw. These permanent replacements are durable and allow the person to speak and eat normally. The dentist will make sure the implants match the color of the patient’s natural teeth. A person could choose implants to replace a few teeth or even an entire mouthful of teeth.

How to choose the right replacement for a missing tooth

With all the dental restoration options available, it can be challenging for a person to select one. The dentist will look at the severity of the person’s condition and then recommend a solution. The patient should also consider factors such as cost, convenience and how long the replacement lasts. The person should also check with their insurance plan to see if there is coverage.

Win back that smile

Whether you lose permanent teeth because of injury, accident or decay, there are dental restoration options to replace them. Talk to your dentist about your needs as you evaluate the benefits of dentures, implants and bridges. Regardless of what you choose, you will no longer have to suffer the embarrassment of having missing teeth. This could also improve the way you treat social situations. Make an appointment with your dentist today so you can get the right treatment.

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