Options For a Missing Tooth

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A missing tooth can affect your appearance, self-confidence, and oral health. If you’re struggling with a missing tooth, consult with your dentist to explore the available solutions. Here are some potential options to that you may discuss with your dental care provider.

Dental Implants

Dental implants have become a favored and durable choice for replacing a missing tooth. An implant comprises a titanium post surgically inserted into your jawbone, serving as an artificial tooth root. After the implant heals and integrates with the bone, a tailor-made dental crown is fixed to the post, delivering a natural-looking and functional tooth replacement. Dental implants in Woodbury, MN boast a high success rate and can last for decades with proper care, making them an excellent solution for a missing tooth.

Dental Bridges

A dental bridge provides another means of addressing a gap left by a missing tooth. A bridge is essentially a false tooth, anchored by crowns placed on the neighboring teeth. Dental bridges offer an efficient and less invasive alternative to dental implants. Just be aware that this option may necessitate reshaping the adjacent teeth, and bridges typically have a shorter lifespan than implants.

Partial Dentures

Partial dentures are removable dental devices that consist of artificial teeth attached to a gum-colored base, held in place by metal clasps or precision attachments. Partial dentures present an affordable and non-invasive solution for replacing missing teeth. However, they might not provide the same stability and comfort as dental implants or bridges and require diligent cleaning and upkeep.

Tooth-Supported Overdentures

Tooth-supported overdentures serve as another option for individuals with a missing tooth. These removable dental devices are designed to replace all teeth in an arch while still utilizing the remaining natural teeth for support. Tooth-supported overdentures can provide a more secure and comfortable fit than traditional dentures, helping to maintain the health of the remaining natural teeth, while restoring your confidence.

You don’t have to endure the inconvenience, embarrassment and discomfort of a missing tooth. Today, numerous options are available to you. Reach out to your friendly dentist in Woodbury, MN to find out which solution best suits your needs. Contact us today to book your appointment to discuss your options.

4 Common Reasons a Tooth Must Be Extracted 

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 With a good preventative dental care plan, most people will never have to have a tooth extraction in Woodbury, PA. However, even with good dental care, occasionally, a tooth will need to be extracted. At Woodlane Family & Cosmetic Dentistry, we understand how disconcerting it can be to have to get a tooth pulled, but we are here to help you every step of the way. Here are just a few reasons you may need an extraction.

1. Extensive Decay

The number one reason people have to get a tooth extracted is extensive decay. Extensive decay means you have a tooth that has deteriorated beyond a point where any form of treatment, such as a filling or root canal, would do any good. Usually, this problem happens when someone has developed a point of decay but avoids getting treatment for the cavity as soon as possible.

2. Crowding

Crowding is an oral health issue that occurs when teeth are growing in a crowded fashion in the gum line. This can happen because of genetics, not pulling teeth at the right time during your childhood years, and even because you have too many teeth or more teeth than what is considered normal.

3. Abscess

A dental abscess is an infection that stems from the root of the tooth. An abscess often stems from tooth damage that allows bacteria to slip into the root can reproduce to cause an infection. In some cases, a root canal can be done to save the tooth, but, occasionally, an abscessed tooth will have to be pulled to eradicate the infection.

4. Periodontal Disease

Periodontal disease (gum disease) causes the deterioration of the soft tissue that supports your teeth. When periodontal disease is left untreated, the condition can affect the actual secured positioning of a tooth. A tooth may get so loose that it could almost be pulled out by hand.

Need to Visit a Woodbury Dentist?

So, you see, an extraction can be required for several different and unique reasons. Regardless of why a tooth needs to be extracted, it is important to make sure you speak with a Woodbury dentist about the issue right away. Prolonging treatment can have damaging repercussions for your oral health and even your smile. Reach out to us to schedule an appointment with our care team today.

What Causes Teeth to Crack? An FAQ

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A cracked tooth can be a problem, depending on how badly the tooth is cracked. Knowing the symptoms of a cracked tooth, what causes teeth to crack and how you can avoid cracking a tooth can help you take care of your dental health. Here’s what you need to know.

What causes teeth to crack?

Teeth generally crack when they’re put under pressure, often when the tooth is ground against something very hard. A person can crack a tooth when biting down on a piece of candy. Other times it may happen due to an impact with something hard.

Some people develop cracked teeth because they grind their teeth at night. If you grind your teeth, speak to your dentist and get a mouthguard.

What can you do to avoid cracking your teeth?

You can avoid cracking a tooth by avoiding the following:

  • Don’t bite down on hard candy. Suck it instead!
  • Don’t use your teeth to tear open packages.
  • Never use your teeth as “scissors” to cut off tags.

Wear your mouthguard if you do grind your teeth.

How can you tell if you grind your teeth?

Your dentist will notice the signs that you grind your teeth. Look for these symptoms:

  • Your teeth are sensitive
  • The enamel is worn down
  • Your cheek is damaged on the inside (from chewing)
  • Your face or neck hurt
  • Your headaches at the temples

If you sleep with a partner, they may notice you grinding your teeth as well.

How can you tell if your tooth is cracked?

There are many different symptoms you may experience if your tooth is cracked including:

  • Pain when chewing
  • Sudden sensitivity to sweetness, heat or cold
  • Discomfort in the teeth and gums

If your tooth is cracked, what should you do?

If you believe your tooth might be cracked, or if you’re having a pain in the teeth that you can’t quite determine where the pain comes from, contact a dental professional as soon as possible.

Concern Your Tooth Might Be Cracked? Contact Us

At Woodlane Family and Cosmetic Dentistry, we help patients manage dental problems like cracked teeth, emergency exams, tooth extractions and more. Make an appointment to address your dental problem today.