Missing incisors and canines are especially common as their positioning in the mouth makes them vulnerable to injury and general wear and tear. Missing a tooth can effect your confidence and your ability to chew correctly and effectively, leading to problems later down the line. Fortunately, if you have lost an incisor, there are a number of ways that you can address the situation and regain confidence in your smile.
Braces and Orthodontic Treatment
Several orthodontists in London and beyond now offer treatment for missing incisors that may have been caused either by specific trauma or irregular growth and positioning of the teeth as the patient has aged. Braces and orthodontic corrections are a popular and effective treatment as they move the other teeth into an appropriate alignment in a predictable way. Trapped or crowded incisors are then able to come through correctly, and the bite and smile are both improved.
Temporary and Permanent Implants
A tooth implant is also a popular and permanent solution. Although surgery is involved, an implant is a stable, long-lasting and virtually imperceptible solution to a missing tooth. If you are without infection, and the gum and bone around the effected tooth are still intact, an implant can be made almost immediately. After a consultation, a small screw would be implanted and a temporary crown fitted over the top. This would later be replaced permanently and would be the same tone and texture as your existing teeth, so it is likely that only you could tell the difference.
Long-term Care and Prevention of Decay
It is important to recognise that, although your new tooth will have been added surgically, it must be cared for in the same way as other teeth with diligent hygiene and daily brushing and flossing. The BBC recently warned that many patients with dental implants had not realised that these had to be cared for as carefully as their remaining teeth to avoid infection and decay. Most reputable dentistry groups such as http://www.uksmile.com/ and The Dental Health Organisation both can provide further information on how to keep your new implant pristine and problem-free.
Expert Advice
After careful consultations and reliable professional advice, you can be confident that your dental health will once again be something to smile about.