Just because you lost your last baby teeth doesn’t mean you’re in the clear. Unfortunately, there are a lot of situations when an adult tooth comes out of your mouth. It could be from a bad cavity, an accident, or a fight. But when an adult tooth gets knocked out, that’s it; there’s no other tooth that will grow.
But don’t fear – you don’t go through the rest of your life with a missing tooth. Here are a couple options that you can choose to get that tooth replaced.
Before you go forward with anything, you should make sure to talk with a professional dentist.
Get an Implant
The most common and popular way to replace a lost tooth is by getting an implant. These are perfect for a single missing tooth or even several. Implants can even be used to support a full set of dentures.
An implant is a metal post that is surgically placed into the upper or lower jaw. These posts act as anchors for the replacement teeth. The metal used for implants are all non-toxic for humans and as non-invasive as they can possibly be (think titanium). Reviews find that implants are secure, stable, and long lasting.
On the other hand, implants don’t always work out for everyone. The surgery requirement means that patients must be in good health before they can get an implant. This also means that patients need to have enough bone to support the implant, or they need to be able to have additional surgeries to build up the bone area needed to place the implant.
If this is the route you decide to take, talk with a professional before getting an implant.
Fixed Bridge Installation
This is different from an implant because it involves multiple missing teeth. A fixed bridge is perfect for those who have more than one lost tooth. This bridge is bonded together in place so that only a dentist can remove it.
The bridge installation will take at least three dental visits, in most cases. The first trip involves preparation. The teeth on either side of the gap are readied to have the bridge attached to them. A lab will get an impression of your teeth and the empty space in order to make your new teeth. That’s where the second visit comes in.
On the second visit, the bridge is temporarily fitted. This is a trial run to make sure the artificial teeth will actually fit in your mouth.
Then finally, on the third visit, the permanent bridge is fitted onto the empty space.
This solution is easier to receive and is usually less invasive, but still requires a lot of time.
Removable Partial Dentures
These are the cheapest option for those looking to replace their teeth. This plastic base (matched to the colour of your gums) has replacement teeth fixed onto it. Removable partial dentures also have a metal framework to fit better to your gums. Unlike implants or bridges, dentures only require a single dental visit.
Dentures should never be worn 24 hours a day. The most difficult part of using dentures is figuring out how to take them out and put them in. Dentures are also similar to retainers in that they must be changed over time, because your teeth and jaw changes as well.
Lost Teeth Aren’t the End of The World
Even if you lose your teeth, you can still enjoy your life. Whether you decide to go with an implant, dentures, or a bridge, your smile and bite are easily fixed. You won’t have to give up your favourite foods or smiling in photographs anymore. You’ll have a replacement that you can be proud of, and nobody will notice.
