A Dental Bridge Might Be Able to Replace a Knocked Out Tooth
A severe blow to the mouth can cause significant oral trauma, which could potentially apply enough force to deeply shatter or knock out a tooth. In a situation like this, emergency dental care is often needed to treat soft tissue damage and assess the treatment options for the traumatized tooth. At Chad Latino DDS, we can provide several restorative dentistry solutions, including a dental bridge to replace a knocked out tooth. In an extreme case where the tooth is not viable for treatment via a root canal, Dr. Latino and his associates might advocate a total dental extraction. This will remove whatever remains of the tooth’s root. Then your gums will be sutured and you will be provided with a prescription for some form of pain medication. After all the affected tissues have fully healed Dr. Latino can help you understand the dental restoration options offered at Chad Latino DDS. This might include a dental implant in Waco, Texas. This might also include a dental bridge restoration to fully replace the missing tooth. A bridge is one way to replace a knocked out tooth. This mode of treatment starts with Dr. Latino examining the two teeth adjacent to the void to make sure they are healthy and strong. Then he will carefully remove the enamel layer from each tooth. This leaves behind a pair of abutments that will eventually anchor the dental bridge in your mouth. The dental bridge will be created at an off-site dental lab. You will need to return for a second appointment to have it cemented in place with a strong dental adhesive. If you live in the Waco, Texas, area and you have suffered a severe dental trauma, you should call 254-615-3084 to seek emergency dental care at Chad Latino DDS. We might recommend a dental bridge to replace your knocked out tooth, or another of our quality dental services.
Brushing and Flossing: The Dynamic Duo
There is more to oral hygiene than simply brushing your teeth. Though brushing is vital, it needs to be done in concert with its companion, flossing. Brushing should be done twice a day, for 2 minutes each time. Use a very soft toothbrush to make short back-and-forth strokes over your teeth and gums. Using the soft bristled brush will make sure that you get your teeth and gums clean, without damaging the enamel or gum tissue. Flossing is also vital for protection from plaque buildup. Chad Latino DDS is glad to offer information on flossing. Flossing cleans between teeth, in the areas your brush cannot reach. Flossing should be done once a day, for 2-3 minutes per session. Use a single-filament thread, if possible, to prevent fraying. Frayed floss is less effective, and shreds can get caught between teeth, causing discomfort. Brushing and flossing both work to remove food particles, debris, acids, and plaque away from your teeth and gums. There are bacteria that live in your mouth. These bacteria feed on sugars from food particles and produce and acidic byproduct that erodes tooth enamel. The bacteria form a sticky film known as plaque that covers the teeth and gums. This is unsightly and damaging to your teeth. It can lead to enamel erosion (cavities) and gum disease. If your plaque buildup has hardened, it is called tartar. Only a dentist has the proper tools and training to remove tartar and get your smile clean and white again. For more information, call Chad Latino DDS at 254-615-3084. No matter your dental needs, we are there for you. For example, could you use a deep cleaning? We offer this service and more as part of our comprehensive general and family dentistry in Waco, Texas. Dr. Latino and our team look forward to making your smile shine!