Trauma to your pearly whites can lead to it being knocked out of place. If this happens to you, it is important to seek care as soon as possible. This can cause more problems than a gap in your smile. Leaving the space there can put you at risk of infection, cause other teeth to become misaligned, and may result in further loss over time. Your staff at Sunny Smiles in El Paso, TX, can examine the area and help treat it promptly.
The Causes Of Adult Tooth Loss
Medical conditions, periodontal disease, and trauma can lead to it coming out. When we lose our primary (“baby”) teeth, it is to make room for the second, permanent set. If we lose permanent ones, there is no other natural structure to fill the gap. In some cases it can be re-rooted. However, other instances may require receiving a prosthetic replacement.
Accidents may not always be preventable, but there are a few precautions you can take to avoid losing your pearly whites. If you frequently play contact sports, wearing a mouthguard can protect your smile from damage. Proper oral hygiene can prevent problems like periodontal disease and cavities, which can lead to tooth loss.
Seek Care As Soon As Possible
It is important to have the area looked at urgently. Do not wait until your next checkup to have the damaged area examined. Delaying treatment may result in the area becoming infected or suffering from further injury. At this emergency visit, the dentist will assess the damage and determine what the best treatment plan may be. In many cases, a prosthetic option will be used. If you have broken a tooth, a crown may be used to repair the area instead.
Prosthetic Options Available To You
For chips and cracks, a dental crown can be bonded to the area. This will protect the area from worsening and allow you to chew and speak without discomfort. If you have lost a tooth due to an injury, a bridge or implant may be suggested to replace the area. A bridge is held in place by the adjacent teeth and is fixed. Implants are also a fixed solution, but this is a longer process that involves surgical insertion. If you have lost a tooth due to gum disease, your dentist can help devise a treatment plan to help manage your symptoms. Then, replacement options such as dentures can be discussed.
Call For An Emergency Visit
If you have knocked out one of your pearly whites, or have suffered another dental emergency, do not wait until your next appointment. To schedule an urgent appointment, call Sunny Smiles Family Dentistry in El Paso, TX, today at 915.759.7000