You use general dentistry for basic checkups and regular semiannual office visits. At these appointments, the dentist will examine your teeth and gums, clean and polish your teeth, and consult you on ways to improve your oral health. The dentist can also be your first resource when you break a tooth or even knock one out. It is important to follow the right guidelines in these situations so you do not cause more damage. Your dentist can help you with both temporary and long-term relief.
Teeth may be strong, but hard blows to the face to dislodge any tooth. An elbow or fist to the mouth, or even biting on something hard, can knock out a tooth. It is also common for this to happen while playing contact sports such as hockey, basketball or wrestling. People lose teeth in car or bike accidents as well. Poor oral hygiene can cause severe decay or infections, which can lead to tooth loss. In these cases, teeth can come out on their own, or the dentist may have to pull them.
People who lose a tooth should locate it if possible. The person should not handle the tooth by the root but should instead pick it up and hold it by the crown. Next, the person should rinse off the tooth in water or in a saline solution. Carefully place the tooth back into the socket and gently press it in. The individual should call the dentist immediately and get into the office as soon as possible. Most dentists can make accommodations for emergency appointments for knocked-out teeth.
Once the individual comes to the office, the dentist will examine the person’s mouth. The dentist will then talk to the person about replacement or repair options. Together, the dentist and the patient will decide which treatment makes the most sense. It is not easy to reattach a tooth, so the likely solution will be replacing it.
A bridge may make the most sense for a single replacement. This method uses a false tooth, which is anchored to adjacent natural teeth. A porcelain implant is a more invasive procedure, but this treatment is durable and long-lasting. For several lost teeth, many patients choose to go with partial dentures. This removable apparatus is made of a gum-colored acrylic base and plastic false teeth. All of these options are natural-looking and can help the patient maintain an attractive smile and normal eating habits.
If you knock out a tooth in an accident, because of an injury or due to decay, you need to act immediately. Thanks to general dentistry techniques, you can replace the gap in your mouth and save yourself from embarrassment. The first thing you need to do is to see your dentist as soon as you can. Then, decide which method will be most effective in your situation. You can feel at ease knowing your dentist can provide the help you need.
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