How to Deal With Tooth Loss


How to Deal With Tooth Loss

By Wright Smiles

Even if you realize that tooth loss is preventable, and take every step you can to prevent it, there’s still a chance that you might lose a tooth to accidental damage or an unnoticed dental condition. Fortunately, although tooth loss is permanent, its effects don’t have to be; with the right replacement teeth, you can deal with tooth loss and once again enjoy the benefits of a beautiful, fully-functioning smile. The trick is to seek the help of a dentist who’s highly-experienced in the art of replacing lost teeth, and preferably one with experience in dental implant restorations.

Step 1: Assess the Damage

The first step to dealing with tooth loss is to assess the situation, like how many teeth you’ve lost and if any damage was sustained by the surrounding gums and jawbone. The cause of your tooth loss can also influence your restorative treatment. For instance, if severe gum disease has eroded the gums and jawbone that support your teeth, then extensive periodontal treatment may be necessary before considering replacement teeth.

Step 2: Weigh Your Options

After we’ve determined the state of your dental health, the next step is to discuss and weigh your options for replacing your lost teeth. If you’ve only lost one or a couple of teeth, then you might benefit from a dental bridge. If the teeth you’ve lost aren’t next to each other, then we may recommend a partial denture. In most cases, however, we strongly suggest supporting your replacement teeth with an appropriate number of dental implants, which replace lost teeth roots and offer unmatched support for your dental prosthetic.

Step 3: Commit to Your New Smile

The beauty of modern replacement teeth, and particularly dental implants, is their ability to mimic healthy, natural teeth in both function and appearance. Like your natural teeth, though, your replacement teeth will require adequate care and routine professional attention to stay clean, comfortable, and working properly. With implant restorations, you can continue brushing and flossing your teeth as usual, including your replacements, although you may have to attend more frequent dental visits until you’ve grown accustomed your new teeth.

ABOUT YOUR SOUTHLAKE DENTISTS:

As a native Texan, Gregory Wright, DDS, opened his private practice in Southlake, TX in 1992. He and Dr. Victoria Heron are happily accepting new patients from Southlake, Grapevine, Keller, Trophy Club, Colleyville, and all surrounding communities. To learn more, call our office today at (817) 481-7999.