Dentist discusses how to prevent complications of tooth loss in Charleston with dental bridges

Extracting a tooth should always be a last resort. If you have a few spaces where teeth used to be, never fear, treatment is available. You are never too old to replace missing teeth. In fact, the sooner you replace the tooth, the better. You prevent the progression of damage that is already being done to your existing teeth and the rest of your mouth. That damage starts as soon as a tooth is pulled, or it falls out.

How to prevent complications of tooth loss

Think about the natural structure of your mouth. Your teeth are supported by the alveolar bone. This sac-like bone needs stimulation to maintain its density and shape. This stimulation is derived from chewing, biting, and other day-to-day functions that you probably don’t think about much until those functions are compromised. It is estimated that 25 percent of the width of bone is lost after one year without a tooth. Overall, the height of that bone shrinks by 4 millimeters within a couple of years of tooth loss. Eventually, the gum tissue also shrinks. All of these support structures are necessary for proper function, so before you know it there may be problems eating. You may have newfound difficult in pronouncing words. Your face may appear less full and more drawn, which can age you prematurely.

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You don’t have to go through this devastating process. Ideally, Mouth Carolina Dentistry, PA will be working with you to identify problems early. When conditions such as gum disease are identified early, Dr. Greenberg may be able to save a tooth with a simple filling or even with modifications to professional and at-home care. If a tooth must be pulled, Dr. Greenberg can quickly build you a new tooth that looks, feels, and functions like the one that was extracted.

Your replacement tooth: the dental bridge

Generally, to move forward with the dental bridge process you must have a few supporting teeth. The pontic will fill the space where the natural tooth used to be. This new tooth is secured to adjacent teeth, which are known as abutments. This area of your mouth will get the stimulation it needs to stay strong and maintain healthy function. It is also a more affordable and less extensive option to dental implants, which require surgical intervention.

Bridges may also be used to replace multiple teeth. To find out more about the process and determine if bridges are the best option for you, call your dentist in Charleston at (843)751 4262.

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Mouth Carolina Dentistry, PA

Mouth Carolina Dentistry, PA - Dr. Andrew Greenberg

Dr. Andrew Greenberg completed his Bachelor’s Degree in New Orleans, Louisiana at Tulane University. He graduated from the Medical University of South Carolina College of Dental Medicine in 2009, where he portrayed excellent academic performance. He exercises his academic brilliance to the benefit of his patients every day. He grew up in a family with a dental background and showed interest in the field since his early days.


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