No one likes visiting the dentist, especially for a procedure like a tooth replacement. However, ignoring dental health problems can cause serious health risks down the line. Instead, you should visit your dentist right away and ask about getting a tooth replacement. What are some of the signs that you need teeth replacements, and what types of replacements are available?
If you are considering getting help for missing or damaged teeth, you’re in luck. Here are some signs that you should get teeth replacements.
Difficulty or Pain When Chewing
One of the first signs you’ll experience is difficulty chewing food, sometimes coupled with pain while chewing. Tooth decay often presents itself with pain as the nerves in the teeth become more exposed. Once eating becomes too difficult, it’s time to consider getting a tooth replacement.
Pay close attention when you eat hot or cold foods. If you experience extreme sensitivity while eating, you should contact a dentist right away for assistance.
Missing or Chipped Teeth
You may look at yourself in the mirror one day and realize that one of your teeth is chipped. Whether you bit something the wrong way or suffered from a facial injury, a chipped tooth can degrade your self-esteem.
Fortunately, a chipped tooth can be fixed with a tooth replacement. Even if you are missing teeth entirely, your dentist can help you get new dental implants to improve your overall dental health.
Signs of Dental Infection
Infections in and around the teeth can lead to serious health problems if left unchecked. These infections can cause severe pain, redness, swelling, and potentially gum bleeding around the infection site. In cases of severe infections, the tooth may need to be extracted.
After the infection is dealt with and the tooth has been extracted, your dentist can speak with you about your tooth replacement options. You don’t have to deal with a missing tooth; get your confidence back and smile fully after a tooth extraction!
Jaw Bone Loss
When a tooth falls out, it leaves an opening behind that allows the jaw to begin wearing down over time. This promotes jaw problems and other dental health issues. It’s important to get implants the moment the jaw begins to deteriorate.
Dental implants and other tooth replacement procedures fill in the gap left behind. In some cases, the implant can be placed directly into the jaw, giving it time to heal and recover. It also prevents further recession of the jaw bone.
Changes to Face Shape
Missing teeth and a deteriorating jawbone can permanently change the overall structure of the face. The missing teeth and weakened areas may begin to sink in, leaving the cheeks hollow-looking.
If you have noticed significant changes in your facial structure, you may be experiencing jaw deterioration or other dental health problems. Talk with your dentist right away to see if dental implants are right for you. With the right treatments, you can get a youthful appearance back in your face in no time!
What Types of Teeth Replacements are Available?
Now that you know the signs to watch out for, you should start thinking about what type of tooth replacement would work best for you. Here are a few options that are available to you.
Dentures
Dentures are commonly used in cases where the individual has many missing or damaged teeth. They fill the role of natural teeth and give the illusion of a perfect smile. They are a less expensive alternative to other tooth replacement procedures.
You should keep in mind that you will need to take steps to maintain and clean your dentures every day, removing them before bed each night. You may also need to revisit your dentist for adjustments over time; if your mouth changes shape significantly, then new dentures may be required.
Dental Implants
Dental implants are perfect for those who want a permanent solution for their missing teeth. In most cases, the dental implant is surgically placed directly into the jawbone where the missing tooth was; once the metal implant has been inserted, the prosthetic tooth is screwed into place. The new tooth can be cleaned and maintained with your normal dental hygiene routine.
With proper care, your new implants won’t have to be replaced. After the implant has been surgically inserted, it should last the rest of your life! If you do experience any adverse side effects from the surgery, or if your prosthetic tooth becomes chipped or damaged, contact your dentist right away.
Dental implants can get expensive, as you will have to pay for each individual implant you receive. Many dental insurance policies cover dental implants, so read up on your coverage to see if you qualify.
Veneers
If you have a tooth that is chipped or cracked, then a dental veneer works as a perfect tooth replacement. These ceramic molds are placed over the damaged tooth to give it the appearance of being whole; just like a dental implant, these veneers can be maintained with regular brushing and flossing. However, these will not help in the case of a missing tooth.
Get the Smile of Your Dreams Today
You don’t have to suffer from dental pain or discomfort. If you have a missing or damaged tooth, talk with your dentist about teeth replacement options. You’d be surprised how much a simple dental procedure can improve your day-to-day life!
Are you suffering from tooth pain? Do you have a missing tooth that you want to be replaced?
We’re here to help. Contact us with any questions or concerns you have about our dental implant procedures and continue reading our blog for more helpful information today!