Is a Missing Tooth an Emergency?

A missing tooth can occur due to many reasons, including trauma, gum disease, and tooth decay. It is one of the most common reasons for emergency visits to the dentist. Many people who have lost a tooth may be less inclined to visit the dentist if the missing tooth does not cause pain and is not one that shows prominently when smiling. However, it is necessary to visit the dentist still, even if the missing tooth does not affect your appearance. Continue reading to know why a missing tooth is an emergency.

The dangers of missing teeth

If the gap in the smile in the smile is not visible and causes no pain, then one might wonder if there is any need to replace the teeth so urgently. When a tooth is lost, several things start to occur gradually in the oral cavity. First, the gum and bone supporting the lost tooth begin to deteriorate and recede, affecting the facial structure. The reason for bone resorption is that the body stops supplying nutrients to the area when it no longer senses the missing tooth's stimulation.

Gradually, the existing teeth will start to shift into the gap, disrupting the proper alignment of the bite. This can make the teeth rub against each other at odd angles, causing quick deterioration. Another danger is that the exposed gums are vulnerable to infection – gum disease can be painful and remains the leading cause of a missing tooth.

Steps to take

To prevent the detrimental effects of missing teeth, it is advisable to treat it as an emergency and visit the dentist as soon as possible. If it is a case of a knocked-out tooth, a prompt visit to the dentist may increase the chances of successful reattachment. Patients should locate the lost tooth if they can and hold it only by the crown, not the root. If dirty, the tooth should be cleaned with warm water then kept in a glass of milk for the dental appointment.

The tooth needs to stay wet until dental care is possible to remain usable. Many dentists have provisions for emergency care for patients with a missing tooth, and they will probably be able to reattach the tooth if a meeting happens within an hour of the injury. When a tooth is lost, the dentist may be able to recommend replacement options to restore the tooth, including:

Dental implants – this option restores the complete tooth structure, down to the root with an implant post. It is the closest match to the original tooth available.

Partial denture – this consists of a replacement tooth connected to a gum-looking base.

A fixed dental bridge – if there are natural teeth on either side of the lost tooth, they can be used to support a tooth-looking restoration

Final note

Generally, a missing tooth is a problem that requires a prompt solution, regardless of its location in the mouth. If you have lost a tooth, be sure to book an appointment as soon as possible.

Request an appointment here: https://sonorandesertdentistry.com or call Sonoran Desert Dentistry at (480) 439-0117 for an appointment in our Scottsdale office.

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