Replacement Options For Teeth That Fell Out

Do you or your kid have a tooth so decayed that it just had to fall off on its own? If so, you might be wondering what to do to replace it and restore your once complete, beautiful smile. Luckily for you, there are quite a number of options to replace your missing tooth. Learn more about these options and how to take good care of your kid’s teeth to prevent tooth decay.

Replacement Options For Teeth That Fell Out

Tooth decay occurs as a result of oral bacteria generating acids from the food you eat, particularly sugary foods. These acids dissolve the tooth enamel, rendering the next layer of tooth tissues even more susceptible to the acid attack. Over time, the decay gets bigger and bigger till no sound tooth structure is left, in turn causing the tooth to eventually fall out. Once it does, then there’s to way to put the tooth back and extraction may be necessary.

When your kid’s tooth is already badly-broken down or loose due to decay, it is a must to have it treated to prevent further infection. Upon bringing your kid to the dental office, the attending dentist will do the following:

1. Clean the affected area, remove the rotten parts, then assess the tooth to determine the best course of treatment.

2. Following assessment, your dentist will discuss to you the appropriate treatment, which includes any of the following:

• Root Canal Treatment (RCT) —This procedure involves removal of the infected pulp tissue and cleaning the space left by it. This space will then be filled by a rubbery material to seal the tooth and prevent reinfection. RCT requires multiple appointments and a jacket crown as final restoration.
• Fixed Bridge —This option involves putting jacket crowns on the teeth adjacent to the missing one. Attached to these crowns is the replacement tooth. These crowns are then fixed to the teeth using dental cements.
• Removable Dentures —Dentures are removable prosthesis fitted with a replacement tooth. Unlike fixed bridges, they don’t require alteration of the adjacent teeth; instead, they are retained through the use of clasps. Their main advantage is that since they are removable, they are much easier to clean and maintain. However, they don’t look or feel as natural as fixed bridges and crowns do, so wearing them requires some getting used to.

Although there are treatment options available, what’s more important is to learn how to take care of you and your kid’s teeth in order to prevent the same problems from occurring in the future.

How to Prevent Tooth Decay

The best way to fight tooth decay is to prevent it from occurring in the first place. To do this, follow the tips below:

• Encourage you kid to practice good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing at least twice a day. Brushing at least 30 minutes after each meal is recommended.
• Take your kid to the dentist every six months for checkup and professional cleaning. The ideal time to start dental visits is when the first tooth erupts or when you kid turns one, whichever comes first.
• Avoid sugary foods and drinks
• Limit intake of sugary snacks and drinks.

Looking for dentist to help with a tooth that has fallen out? Find Kool Smiles partner dentist near you!