Dental health plays a significant role in your overall health, so taking care of your teeth and gums is essential. Poor oral hygiene can lead to dental problems, including tooth decay, gum disease, and tooth loss.
When these dental health issues start to develop, they can take a toll on your confidence, making you afraid to show your smile. The good news is that there are dental treatments that can help restore your confidence and get your smile back. Here are some of the different dental treatments that can help:
Dental implants
Dental implants are a popular and effective way to replace missing teeth. This is because they are made of titanium, compatible with human bone, and fuse to the jawbone over time. This provides a strong foundation for artificial teeth, known as crowns. Dental implants are also used to support a single crown, or they can be used to hold a dental bridge in place. In addition, they can be used to support dentures, making them more stable and comfortable.
The success rate for dental implants is high, and they can last for many years with proper care. However, they are not suitable for everyone. Candidacy for dental implants requires healthy gums and adequate bone density. In addition, people who smoke or have diabetes may not be good candidates for dental implants due to the increased risk of infection. People considering dental implants should talk to their dentist to see if they are good candidates.
Crowns
Dental crowns are one option for repairing damaged teeth. A crown placed on the tooth is a “cap” that covers the entire visible portion of a tooth. Crowns can be made from different materials, including metal, ceramic, or porcelain. They are placed over the existing tooth to restore its shape, size, and function. In some cases, crowns are also used to improve the appearance of teeth.
Dental crowns are usually placed by a dentist or endodontist, and the procedure usually takes two dental visits. During the first visit, the tooth is prepared for the crown, and a temporary crown is placed. The permanent crown is placed over the prepared tooth during the second visit. Moreover, dental crowns may last for a long time with proper care. But still, you may eventually need to replace them due to wear or changes in the underlying tooth.
Bridges
Bridges are a typical dental restoration used to replace one or more missing teeth. Bridges are usually made from porcelain or ceramic and are designed to match the color and shape of your natural teeth. Bridges are anchored in place by attaching them to the adjacent teeth, and they can significantly improve the function and appearance of your smile.
In addition to restoring your ability to chew and speak correctly, bridges can also help prevent your other teeth from shifting out of place. If you are missing one or more teeth, talk to your dentist about whether a bridge might be right for you.
Dentures
Dentures are removable tooth appliances for patients with missing teeth, often made of acrylic resin, metal, or nylon. Often, they are supported by the gum tissue and/or dental implants. Dentures can be used to replace one tooth or all of the teeth. Dentures have two types: complete and partial. Dentists use full dentures when all of the teeth are missing. On the other hand, partial dentures are for patients with remaining natural teeth.
Dentures are custom-made to fit each patient’s mouth, typically worn during the day and removed at night. It is important to clean dentures regularly to remove plaque and food debris. Dentures should also be stored in a clean, dry environment to prevent them from drying out or damaging. Proper care of dentures can help extend their life and ensure they remain comfortable and functional.
Tooth-colored fillings
One of the most common dental procedures is the placement of a filling. A filling is used to restore a tooth that has been damaged by decay or injury. In the past, most fillings were made from metal, which could be visible when you smiled or laughed. However, advances in dentistry have led to the development of tooth-colored fillings. Made from durable resin, these fillings are designed to match the color of your natural teeth. As a result, they are virtually invisible when you smile. In addition, tooth-colored fillings bond directly to the tooth, providing extra support and strength. Talk to your dentist about tooth-colored options if you are considering a filling.
The bottom line
If you’re struggling with your dental health and impacting your confidence, talk to your dentist about which treatment option is right for you. With the help of a professional, you can get your smile back on track.
