Should I get Dental Implants or Dentures?

Many people have one or more missing teeth because of an accident, gum disease, fracture, etc. Missing teeth can affect self-esteem, and it can also harm the structure of your jaw. But, don’t fear – because we have ways to get you the healthy smile you wish to have.

What Are Dentures?

Dentures are false teeth that people whose jaw and gums or unhealthy or weak may choose. They can feel unnatural and move around in the mouth and are best when used with adhesives. You may also have restrictions when it comes to the foods you can eat, and will need to clean your dentures regularly. However, dentures can cause tooth decay or infection if they’re not properly fitted. They’re less expensive than dental implants, but you’ll probably need to replace them every few years.

What Are Dental Implants?

Dental implants give the feeling of a natural tooth. When it comes to receiving a dental implant, your oral surgeon will evaluate you to see how much bone you have. If your jaws lack the depth needed, you may need a bone graft. This will be done by your oral surgeon when you have a tooth or teeth removed. Dental implants are implanted into the jaw/gum and they’ll be an anchor for dental crowns. You won’t have slipping in the mouth like dentures. In addition, you won’t have to remove them to clean them. Because they’re like natural teeth, dental implants can last for years with good oral hygiene. They are more expensive, but unlike dentures they have less maintenance cost and feel more natural.

Before you decide, we recommend that you meet with your oral surgeon to go over options and cost. Some insurance plans don’t cover dental implants, so this is important to discuss with them. IOSC is here for you and happy to answer any questions you may have.

The decision between dental implants or dentures can be a tough one. Call IOSC at (423) 296-8210 to make an appointment today. Our skilled oral surgeons will be with you from start to finish.

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What Happens if My Tooth Gets Knocked Out?

A tooth that is knocked out is called avulsed. When an accident occurs and a tooth is knocked out, it may be saved in some cases. But, it’s important to follow these procedures.

1. When a Tooth is Knocked Out

Locate the tooth right away and handle it carefully. For that reason, don’t touch the root as you could damage it. When you lose a tooth in an injury or accident, the blood vessels, nerves and tissues will also sustain damage. Unfortunately, the blood vessels and nerves can’t be repaired. Therefore, seeing your oral surgeon right away is very important.

2. How to Handle a Tooth

If the tooth is dirty, don’t use any type of soap to clean or dry off. You can gently rinse it with milk. Keep it moist by placing the tooth back in your mouth in the socket and hold pressure. You can also store it in milk. If this happens to a child, it’s best to store the tooth with the child’s saliva. Water isn’t recommended, but can be used if needed for short time storage. Keeping it moist is what’s most important.

3. Time is of the Essence

It’s recommended to have the tooth to the oral surgeon within 30 minutes. The tooth needs to be intact, but an oral surgeon can work with it if it’s been broken. Dental implants are good option if the tooth is lost or broken.

4. When a Child Loses a Tooth

If a child loses a tooth you should follow these guidelines as though it’s a permanent tooth. Even though children eventually lose their baby teeth, an accident can cause problems. Gum damage due to carelessness can damage the permanent teeth below. This may also cause crooked teeth and eating problems because the permanent tooth can’t emerge properly.

5. Treatment

Treatment depends on the damage the tooth has sustained. A replantation may be successful if it’s done within 30 minutes and the supporting bone isn’t damaged. After that a root canal will follow. A bone graft may be needed if the bone was damaged. Bone grafting is a procedure during which bone grafting material is used to supplement the damaged bone. This can take several months to heal and be ready for dental implants. Sometimes when a serious injury has occurred neither implants nor bone grafts are an option. Therefore, the oral surgeon will clean, irrigate, and suture. In 2 or 3 months an implant may be an option. When it comes to using a temporary tooth, it can made within days for the patient.

An incident such as tooth loss is not something anyone wants to experience. However, if this should happen to you or a loved one, our skilled surgeons at Implants & Oral Surgery of Chattanooga are here to help. Call us today at (423) 296-8210 for your appointment.

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