Having a tooth extracted is one of the most common reasons for temporary teeth. Even though a tooth extraction may be a relatively simple procedure, it can be traumatic for the patient. It is important to understand why your dentist may recommend a temporary tooth to replace a lost tooth.
Some of the reasons an extraction might be necessary include the following:
- Tooth decay
- Tooth root fracture
- Dental implant failure
- Dental implant abutment failure
- Tooth fracture that extends into the bone
- Tooth fracture that extends onto the gum or bone
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Temporary Tooth Loss
Temporary teeth can be used to replace a tooth that is missing or has been extracted. There are various reasons why a tooth may have to be extracted. The most common reason is tooth decay, which can cause pain, swelling, and other problems. A tooth may also have to be extracted to prevent infection, even if there is no pain or other symptoms.
Dental Implant Surgery
Some dentists perform dental implant surgery to place an artificial implant in the jawbone. The implant holds a replacement tooth which can be attached with a crown or bridge. While temporary teeth are often used to replace an implant during surgery, the implant may also be removed during surgery. The reason is that the bone around the implant does not have enough room for a tooth to be placed.
In some cases, other permanent teeth are needed to allow for proper space for the implant. The other permanent teeth may be placed at the same time as the implant or after the implant has healed.
Extraction Of A Tooth
Extractions are performed when a tooth is impacted into the jawbone and cannot be removed without causing damage to the surrounding bone. The most common reason for an extraction is decay, but other complications can also cause problems with extraction.
In some cases, an extraction may be required because of a jawbone fracture or a space too small for a tooth to be placed. In these cases, the dentistry team may recommend a temporary tooth to be placed to protect the jawbone while they wait for a new permanent tooth to heal.
Temporary Crowns or Bridges
While a temporary crown or bridge may not hold up as well as a permanent replacement, it can provide comfort until you have time to make your permanent replacement. A temporary crown or bridge can also be used for dental implants that are not ready for placement yet.
Denture Sleeves and Denture Plugs
Denture sleeves and plugs can be used to protect your teeth that are missing due to extraction or due to a fracture in the jawbone. These are very similar in appearance and function, except that they are more durable than denture plugs and sleeves, which are made from soft rubber. Denture sleeves and plugs are used for patients who have had their teeth removed and need protection until their new permanent teeth come in. Denture sleeves and plugs protect your soft-tissue and bone until your new permanent teeth have grown in. They are often used for decay or other reasons when your teeth are extracted. Because they are made of hard plastic, they can last longer than soft rubber denture plugs and sleeves.
Surgical Procedures Involving Teeth and Sinuses
A surgical procedure involving teeth and sinuses is called an Endodontic Treatment. This procedure involves drilling into the tooth’s root to remove any decay or other complications that may have caused your tooth to become impacted into the jawbone. Your dentist will also check to see if there is any loose bone in your mouth from a fracture or other problems that can cause your tooth to become impacted. If your dentist needs to remove your impacted tooth, this procedure will be necessary to remove the damaged portion of your tooth and prevent further decay or infection.
During this procedure, your upper jaw bone will also be drilled down for your dentist to access the nerve that connects your lower jaw bone to your brain. If you have had your teeth extracted due to infection or decay, your dentist will need to make sure that there is no infection in your sinuses during this procedure. Your dentist may also perform an endo-sinus procedure during this procedure to clean out any infection that may have occurred in your sinus cavities before the extraction of your tooth. If you have had your teeth extracted due to decay, your dentist will likely recommend an endodontic treatment to prevent further infection and decay from occurring in your mouth.
Evaluating Your Oral Health Needs
Oral health is vital for overall health and well-being. It is important to practice good oral hygiene and visit the dentist regularly to prevent tooth decay, gum disease, and other mouth diseases. Regular dental check-ups and cleanings can also help to detect any early signs of oral health problems so that they can be treated quickly and effectively. Taking care of our teeth and gums can help us to maintain a healthy and attractive smile and prevent pain and discomfort in our mouth.
If you have had your teeth extracted due to infection or decay, you will likely need temporary teeth for at least 6 months after installing your permanent replacement teeth. Commonly, most patients cannot speak well enough until their permanent replacement teeth have been installed for at least six months after their extraction. If you have had your teeth removed because of dental implants, you may need temporary teeth for at least six months before you can speak well enough without having an issue with your speech or swallowing.
If you have had an endodontic treatment, it will likely take at least six months before you can speak well enough without having issues with speech or swallowing again due to an infection in your sinus cavities before your endodontic treatment.
Moreover, if your teeth are extracted for any reason, you will likely need temporary teeth for at least six months after your permanent replacement teeth installed. Dental treatments can provide temporary teeth, including dentures, a dental bridge, or a temporary crown. It is important to consult with a dentist about your specific needs to decide which treatments are the best for you.
