dental implant

Dental implants are easily the most popular and also the ideal solution, for replacing your missing tooth/teeth. They have definitely changed the course of dentistry in the last quarter of a century or so.

A dental implant is basically a titanium post which is surgically inserted into the jawbone beneath the gum line to work as a tooth root. Post insertion, an implantologist will attach a crown on top of the implant to ensure the appearance of a natural tooth.

WHY DENTAL IMPLANTS?

One can face the problem of missing teeth at any point in life. Tooth loss can be due to trauma, accident, severe gum disease, tooth decay or even due to poor oral hygiene. If left untreated missing teeth can lead to various consequences such as

Speech problems resulting from the gap created by one or more missing teeth Difficulty in chewing
Face may start look older and wrinkled with sunken cheeks as missing teeth can cause sagging of muscles which can’t support lips & cheeks
Pain in the facial muscles of the jaw resulting in an improper bite induced by the missing teeth
Tooth decay and gum disease, over time, due to plaque accumulation & food entrapment in the gap caused by the missing teeth
Improper bite resulting from a tilt of adjacent teeth into the empty spaces caused by a missing tooth
Untreated missing teeth may dent the facial appearance causing low set-esteem or lack of confidence
Hiding smile during conversations or at public gatherings to avoid the embarrassment caused by a bad smile from missing teeth

Dental Implants help to overcome all the above-mentioned problems. They are no doubt the best, and most popular solution for the replacement of missing teeth. Dental implants are fit for every individual having missing teeth irrespective of their age and gender.

WHY DENTAL IMPLANTS?

Speech problems resulting from the gap created by one or more missing teeth
Difficulty in chewing
Pits or holes in the teeth
Face may start look older and wrinkled with sunken cheeks as missing teeth can cause sagging of muscles which can’t support lips & cheeks
Pain in the facial muscles of the jaw resulting in an improper bite induced by the missing teeth
Tooth decay and gum disease, over time, due to plaque accumulation & food entrapment in the gap caused by the missing teeth
Improper bite resulting from a tilt of adjacent teeth into the empty spaces caused by a missing tooth
Untreated missing teeth may dent the facial appearance causing low set-esteem or lack of confidence
Hiding smile during conversations or at public gatherings to avoid the embarrassment caused by a bad smile from missing teeth

Treatment Options for Pediatric Cavities

Dental Fillings

The most common treatment option for a child who has one or more cavities involves dental fillings. Dental fillings are typically made of composite resin, which provides a tooth-colored restoration for your child’s smile. The decay is removed fully from the tooth and a filling put into the small hole that was created. This puts an end to the decay and prevents it from getting worse.

Tooth Extraction

For severe tooth decay, some dentists will recommend completely extracting the tooth, especially if it is a baby tooth. This is typically only done when the decay is severe enough that no other treatment option is available to save the tooth. Early extraction of baby teeth can lead to problems with chewing and eating, as well as orthodontic issues later on.

Pulpotomy

For decay that has been allowed to reach the inner pulp of the tooth, a pulpotomy may be needed. A pulpotomy is slightly different from a root canal, but it is performed in a similar manner and is typically only done on children. Pulpotomies involve removing only a small portion of the inner pulp and placing a medicated packing material inside the tooth before closing it with a tooth-colored filling.

Preventative Treatments

Preventative treatment options include fluoride varnishes and sealants, which can be done in the dental office. Sealants are used to protect the chewing surfaces of the back teeth by creating a clear layer of BPA-free plastic over the grooves and fissures that can be difficult to clean. Fluoride varnishes can be applied to strengthen and protect teeth from decay.

The Importance of Routine Dental Visits

One of the best ways to know if your child has cavities is to bring them to the dentist for a regular dental exam. Check-ups are critical for identifying cavities and providing quick, efficient treatment when it is needed. You’ll also have a chance to catch rare dental issues early, such as mesiodens, before they cause more significant problems. You should aim to bring your child into the office once every six months for professional cleaning, fluoride treatment application, and an X-ray.

It’s never too early to get your child in for their first dental visit. In fact, many dental professionals recommend that infants come in for their first appointment as soon as their teeth begin to come through the gums. Not only is the dentist able to monitor the growth and development of your child’s smile, but they’ll give you tips on how to practice the best oral hygiene with your child at home.

Prevention of Cavities and Practicing Good Oral Hygiene

The best thing you can do for your child’s dental health is to help them prevent cavities. Talk to your child about the importance of proper oral hygiene and how they should be brushing their teeth. Until your child is about six years old, make it a habit to monitor them while brushing so you can be sure the plaque and bacteria are cleared away.

While cavities are more common among children, they can be prevented altogether using better oral hygiene techniques and preventative measures at the dental office. If you suspect that your child has a cavity, it’s always a good idea to get them checked by scheduling a pediatric dentistry appointment. Helping your children adopt healthy habits early on makes them more likely to care for their teeth as an adult and maintain a full and bright smile for life.