Extractions & Preservation

Teeth often need to be extracted or pulled out in different scenarios. For example, if a tooth is severely decayed and cannot be fixed with a filling, it might be necessary to extract the tooth to prevent the decay from spreading to surrounding teeth. Additionally, impacted wisdom teeth can cause overcrowding and need to be removed before they cause pain. 

At LaBry Family Dentistry, tooth extractions are performed under local anesthesia, so you will be awake but not feel any pain. Our dentist in Broussard, LA, will loosen the tooth and then remove it. After the procedure, you will most likely experience some bleeding and may want to eat soft foods for several days after the procedure. Most patients recover quickly and can typically eat within a week of the process. A missing tooth can be replaced with an implant or bridge.

What Causes Tooth Loss?

Tooth Decay

If cavities are left untreated for too long, they can grow larger and cause the tooth to fall out. Suppose you experience a toothache or sensitivity to hot and cold foods and drinks. In that case, we recommend visiting your dentist as soon as possible so we can address the issue and prevent further damage before the cavity reaches the roots of the tooth.

Gum Disease

The most common form of gum disease is gingivitis, which occurs when plaque builds up around the teeth and causes inflammation of the gums. Left untreated can lead to periodontitis and, eventually, tooth loss. Thankfully, with regular brushing and flossing, as well as professional cleanings and checkups every six months, you can prevent gum disease and keep your teeth and gums healthy.

Physical Trauma

Traumatic facial injuries can knock out teeth and cause permanent damage to the surrounding tissue and bone structure. In this case, we will likely recommend replacing the missing tooth with a dental implant, so your smile stays strong and beautiful again.

How Do Dentists Repair Missing Teeth?

After tooth extractions, you should fill the gap left by a missing tooth to prevent other teeth from shifting and maintain good oral health. One solution could be a permanent replacement, such as a bridge or dental implant. However, if you do not want to wait for an implant to heal, you could use a removable option like a denture to fill the space.

A bridge is permanently fixed to neighboring teeth with dental crowns. Dental implants are surgically placed in your jawbone to act as an artificial root to which a crown can attach. Dentures are also removable but fit securely over the gums using suction or adhesives.

Regardless of your restoration, you must maintain regular appointments with your dentist for examinations and professional cleanings. It would help if you also continued practicing excellent oral hygiene habits at home by brushing twice daily and flossing daily. This will help to ensure the longevity of the restoration as well as your oral health in general.

Various factors play a role in tooth loss, from genetics to poor oral hygiene habits. Visit LaBry Family Dentistry at 100 Tennyson Drive, Broussard, LA 70518, or call (337) 330-8480 for more information.