Dentures and Teeth Lost to Dental Trauma
Partial dentures
Accidents can happen at any time, and unfortunately, some of them can result in severe dental trauma. Whether it’s a sports injury, an automotive collision, or another high-impact event, a sudden blow to the mouth can cause significant damage to the teeth and surrounding structures. While minor cases of dental trauma may be treatable with restorative options such as crowns, fillings, or root canals, some injuries are too severe for these solutions. In such cases, the affected teeth may need to be removed entirely to prevent further complications and alleviate pain.
The Necessity of Emergency Tooth Extraction
When a tooth suffers irreparable damage, extraction becomes the best course of action. The goal of an emergency tooth extraction is to prevent infection, manage pain, and prepare the area for a suitable replacement. If left untreated, severely damaged teeth can lead to oral infections, increased discomfort, and further damage to the surrounding teeth and gums.
Replacing Missing Teeth After Dental Trauma
Once the gums have fully healed following an extraction, the next step is to explore tooth replacement options. Losing a tooth can impact more than just your appearance—it can affect your ability to chew, speak, and maintain proper oral health. Gaps in your smile can also lead to the shifting of adjacent teeth, which can cause further dental issues over time.
For individuals who prefer to avoid invasive surgical procedures such as dental implants or implant-supported bridges, partial dentures provide an effective and less invasive alternative.
What Are Partial Dentures?
A partial denture is a removable dental appliance designed to replace one or more missing teeth. Unlike full dentures, which replace an entire arch of teeth, partial dentures fill in specific gaps while working in harmony with your remaining natural teeth. The prosthetic teeth are set into a pink, gum-colored base that is customized to blend seamlessly with your natural gum tissue.
Partial dentures are designed to restore both the functionality and aesthetics of your smile. They help you chew food properly, maintain clear speech, and prevent existing teeth from shifting out of place. Additionally, they provide support to facial muscles, reducing the risk of sunken facial features that can result from missing teeth.
The Benefits of Choosing Partial Dentures
- Non-Invasive Solution – Unlike dental implants, which require surgical placement into the jawbone, partial dentures are a removable and non-invasive option.
- Restored Functionality – With partial dentures, you can enjoy a more natural biting and chewing function, allowing you to eat a wider variety of foods comfortably.
- Aesthetic Enhancement – Modern dentures are crafted to look as natural as possible, restoring your smile and boosting your confidence.
- Prevention of Further Dental Issues – Missing teeth can cause adjacent teeth to shift, leading to misalignment and potential jaw problems. Partial dentures help maintain the structure of your bite.
- Affordability – Compared to dental implants, partial dentures are often a more cost-effective tooth replacement solution.
How Partial Dentures Stay in Place
Partial dentures can be designed with different retention methods depending on the patient’s needs. Some partial dentures use small metal clasps that grip onto adjacent natural teeth, providing stability and preventing the appliance from shifting while speaking or eating. Other designs utilize precision attachments or even a combination of materials to maximize comfort and security. During your consultation, Dr. Bushong will evaluate your oral health and recommend the best type of partial denture for your needs.
The Importance of Proper Denture Care
Caring for partial dentures is crucial to maintaining both their longevity and your oral health. Here are some key care tips:
- Remove and rinse your dentures after eating to prevent food particles from accumulating.
- Brush your dentures daily using a soft-bristle toothbrush and a non-abrasive denture cleanser.
- Soak your dentures in water or a denture-cleaning solution when not in use to prevent them from drying out.
- Maintain good oral hygiene by brushing your gums, tongue, and any remaining natural teeth.
- Schedule regular dental check-ups to ensure your dentures fit properly and remain in optimal condition.
Seek Treatment for Dental Trauma Without Delay
If you have suffered severe dental trauma and require immediate care, it is essential to seek professional treatment as soon as possible. Ignoring a damaged or missing tooth can lead to infection, discomfort, and further complications. At Wausau Smiles, Dr. Aaron Bushong and his team are dedicated to providing compassionate, high-quality dental care tailored to your unique needs.
Located in Wausau, Wisconsin, our practice offers a variety of tooth replacement options, including partial dentures, to restore both function and aesthetics to your smile. If you or a loved one have experienced a dental emergency, don’t wait to seek treatment. Contact Wausau Smiles today at 715-842-3933 to schedule an appointment and explore the best solutions for your dental health.
Your smile is important, and we are here to help you regain its beauty and functionality after dental trauma.