Tooth loss is an unfortunately common problem that can lead to a host of oral health issues like dental misalignments, trouble eating, difficulty speaking, gum damage, jawbone atrophy, and even further tooth loss. While it might be tempting to attempt a “do-it-yourself” tooth replacement technique that you discovered on the Internet, these methods typically produce lackluster results and can even cause injuries. Here’s why your dental restorations should only be placed by a qualified dentist.
What Are a Few DIY Tooth Replacements?
While you shouldn’t attempt to repair or replace a tooth without the help of a trained dentist, you can find a wide variety of purported at-home dental restoration methods on the Internet. A few of these include:
- Melted polymers: These kits come with beads that the user is instructed to melt and mold into the shape of a tooth with their fingers. The package may also include coloring agents so the “restoration” can be matched to the shade of the other teeth.
- Moldable wax: Some people attempt to mold this putty-like material into the shape of a tooth and use it as a dental restoration.
- Orthodontic wax: While this material is safe for use in the mouth to protect the soft tissues from the pointy parts of braces, some people use large bits of it to replace missing teeth.
None of these products can produce a lifelike or functional dental restoration, and swallowing these insecure artificial teeth may lead to digestive issues.
What Tooth Replacements Might My Dentist Recommend?
Luckily, your dentist can help you find a beautiful and functional dental restoration that can improve your diet, speech, and confidence. After a brief consultation, they may recommend:
- Dental bridges: These devices can replace one or several sequential missing teeth with lifelike replicas that restore a significant amount of chewing power.
- Dentures: These restorations can replace several or many teeth throughout the mouth or even complete dental arches.
- Dental implants: These prosthetic appliances are surgically inserted into the jawbone and fused with it through the natural process of osseointegration. This allows them to give restorations maximum stability, lifespan, and chewing power.
Your smile deserves a high-quality tooth replacement device that boosts your confidence and protects your oral health. Consulting with your dentist can help you find the best prosthetic appliance for you.
About the Author
Dr. Tarangini Suggala earned her dental degree at the Boston University Henry M. Goldman School of Dental Medicine and has more than a decade of experience as an oral healthcare provider. Her Carrollton office offers general, restorative, emergency, and cosmetic dentistry as well as tooth replacement services. To schedule a tooth replacement consultation, contact her online or dial (972) 446-1111.