Dentists estimate that more than 120 million people are living in the US with one or more missing teeth. Furthermore, data suggests that around 36 million people are missing all of the teeth in their upper or lower jaw – approximately 10 percent of the population.
A person may have missing teeth for all kinds of reasons, including injury, decay, or gum disease. Aging can also affect the likelihood of tooth loss.
The term “restored teeth” is a catch-all term that describes any tooth that has been replaced by a synthetic alternative, such as a dental implant or with dentures.
People choose to use restored teeth to improve the structure of their mouths, provide a biting surface, and restore their smile.
DO I NEED TO CARE FOR MY RESTORED TEETH?
Restored teeth, just like natural teeth, need a certain level of care. Restored teeth don’t decay as natural teeth do: they’re made of synthetic materials that bacteria can’t use as food. However, you’ll still want to make sure that you take measures to protect your investment.
The most important thing is to keep the gum around the restored tooth healthy. Implants pass through the gum and secure to the bone beneath. The gum, needs to form a tight seal around the root of the implant (called the post) to prevent bacteria from getting in. Bacteria, can build up to dangerous levels around the gum, damaging it, and eventually causing it to peel away from the post. When this happens, infection is free to spread under the gum line and around the implant, causing pain.
The good news is that caring for restored teeth is easy. If you have implants, clean them as you would regular teeth, paying particular attention to the gum line. Remove dentures at night and leave them in suitable cleansing solution to prevent the growth of bacteria. Brush and floss your remaining teeth twice per day to keep bacteria at bay.
DO I NEED REGULAR CHECKUPS IF I GET MY TEETH RESTORED?
It’s a good idea to go for regular checkups regardless of whether you have restored teeth or not. Checkups, however, become even more critical when you have invested so much time, money, and emotional capital into your teeth.
At your checkup, we will ensure that there is no damage to your restored teeth, and make adjustments and repairs where necessary. Most people get their restored teeth checked every six months, along with the rest of their mouth.
HOW SHOULD I CARE FOR MY RESTORED TEETH AT HOME?
If you have restored teeth, we’ll provide you with a home care plan to help them last. We recommend the following:
- Cut down on sugar consumption – this can foster the growth of harmful bacteria
- Use fluoride toothpaste
- Avoid chewing or smoking tobacco
- Use approved mouthwash from your periodontist
- Floss or use interdental brushes once per day
If you have any more questions about restored teeth, contact us to schedule an appointment for an exam or treatment.