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Tooth loss is not uncommon, but when it is a front tooth that is missing, it can have a very dramatic effect on your appearance. The front teeth too are vulnerable to accidents such as a fall or a blow to the face; so even those who really look after their teeth can potentially find themselves in this situation unexpectedly.

First we should make clear that we are not talking about a diastema, where all the teeth are present, but the way that the teeth have grown has left a gap between the teeth. Here we are discussing when a front tooth has been knocked out or has to be extracted because of damage or decay.

Can the tooth be saved?

If you lose a front tooth (or any) due to an accident; if the roots are still intact, it may be possible to save the tooth if you act very quickly. Pick the tooth up, avoiding touching the root, rinse, but don’t rub, the tooth in water and then put in a container of milk or your own saliva and contact us straight away. Every minute lost means less chance of saving the tooth, so please act quickly.

Presuming that the tooth can’t be saved though, or has been extracted, what are the options to replace it available at The Lodge Dental Suite?

Dentures

A denture could be used in situations such as this. Whilst these are more advanced than older type dentures, they may still move around in the mouth from time to time. Because the front teeth are very visible and prominent, this may be instantly noticeable. So whilst this approach is certainly viable, other more permanent methods may be preferred.

Bridge

A bridge could be used, but in order to attach it, significant preparatory work would be needed to attach supporting crowns to the teeth adjacent to the gap. This is not an approach that some patients are willing to take, particularly where front teeth are concerned.

Dental implant

This method will almost certainly provide the strongest and most stable replacement tooth that you can currently have. Although it does require a minor invasive procedure, the artificial tooth root, which in effect is what the implant is, provides great stability and offers a secure replacement tooth for many years to come. Implants are also straightforward to keep clean and avoid the need for the fiddly cleaning that can come with having a bridge or dentures.

The Lodge Dental Suite is here to help patients from the Cheshunt and Waltham Cross area have not only healthy teeth, but great looking ones too. If you would like to discover how we might be able to help you, please call our family friendly dental practice on 01992 643388.

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