“I’d rather just pull it,” said Kevin. “I don’t want to deal with a root canal. I just want to get rid of it and forget it.”
It wasn’t the first time I’d heard those words from a patient. Too many people would rather “not deal with the problem” by having their teeth pulled. This is a short-term solution with long-term consequences that many don’t realize until it’s too late.
Most people don’t understand the vital role of each tooth in their mouth. They think, “What’s one missing tooth going to hurt?”
Here’s why you never want to lose a tooth.
Each tooth plays a vital role in the harmony of your mouth’s structure, function, appearance, and health.
When a missing tooth isn’t replaced right away, this begins the domino effect of the other teeth drifting from their original positions into the missing tooth’s space. This creates unsightly gaps and tilting of the teeth that can lead to gum disease, tooth decay, bite problems, and more.
This migration of the teeth comes with the shifting of the bone that holds these teeth, creating deformities in our face and jaw’s bone structure. In other words, it’s not a pretty picture.
So if your tooth can be saved, it’s always best to save it.
How to prevent a missing tooth
Root canals have a bad rap but are actually the best ways to save badly decayed or damaged teeth. And keeping your own tooth is always the best option.
For those who are truly opposed to root canals, you have the option of getting your tooth extracted (possibly with bone grafting) and restoring it with either an implant or a bridge.
But these treatment options are more expensive and more involved than just restoring the affected tooth with a root canal and crown.
What’s the best way to replace a missing tooth?
Dental implants and bridges are considered the best options to restore a missing tooth.
Dental implants replace a missing tooth with an artificial tooth root, shaped like a screw that is surgically inserted into the jawbone. Implants are done in stages, and there are waiting periods while your bone and tissue heal and while the implant integrates with your own bone.
A bridge is a second-best option for replacing a missing tooth. A dental bridge provides an artificial tooth replacement for a missing tooth by anchoring it to the adjacent teeth. So bridges require viable adjacent teeth behind and in front of the missing tooth that will be trimmed down to serve as anchors (aka abutments) for the false tooth (aka pontic) that sits in between them.
Otherwise, a bridge is not possible.
Need a “quick-fix,” temporary solution? We also provide high-quality temporary restorations.
Come in us for a complimentary consultation (just mention this blog post!) so we can advise you with the best treatment option for you to get your shine back.
And take advantage of our discount plan to make dental implants more affordable for you.
What if my teeth have already shifted from a missing tooth?
Orthodontic treatment may be an option to correct the shifting. And replacing the missing tooth with an implant afterward may be recommended. Come in any time for a Complimentary Orthodontic Consultation so we can restore the harmony of your smile.
Conclusion
Losing a tooth is not something you ever want to happen.
So before choosing to get a tooth yanked, remember that the problem isn’t solved yet and that you need to get that tooth replaced ASAP to prevent more problems down the line.
Luckily, you have great options to restore a missing tooth before your teeth and bone start to shift and lead to other problems.
Dental implants and dental bridges are excellent treatment options to restore your smile. Book an appointment so we can help you get your smile and your confidence back ASAP.
