There are many reasons a tooth might be missing – some can be lost in an accident, some develop large holes and have to be pulled out, while others may simply never develop due to genetic reasons. A missing tooth can often be distressing, particularly if noticeable when a person smiles. Fortunately, our dentists at Vale Dental are able to provide a number of replacement options for missing teeth including implants, dentures, and bridges, delivered in a comfortable manner with the latest technology.
A missing tooth is not necessarily a bad thing; many people have had a tooth taken out and found that its impact has been minimal. However, it is important to understand the potential consequences of not replacing a missing tooth. Chewing ability is often compromised, placing more stress on other teeth as a compensation mechanism. Aesthetically it can be a concern, especially if it affects a person’s smile. The tooth above a missing space will often over-erupt into the gap, sometimes exposing the root of this tooth and causing sensitivity problems. Teeth either side of the space can also tilt into the gap, altering a person’s bite.
Regular, six-monthly check-ups for your kids will ensure any potential problems are diagnosed earlier and treated in a more conservative, effective way. The early loss of a primary tooth, whether due to tooth decay or trauma (for example, from a fall) can cause big ramifications for your child’s ‘adult’ or permanent teeth, including crowding issues and lasting damage to their adult teeth. Once the first adult teeth come through around five or six years of age, our dentists teach your kids about the most efficient tooth-brushing technique for their adult teeth, setting them up for good oral health and preventing problems with their teeth later in life. Our dentists also discuss the importance of flossing and whether mouthrinses or other dental cleaning aids should be used.
At Vale Dental, we are experienced in a range of dental treatments for children, including check-up and cleans, fissure sealants, fluoride treatment, fillings and extractions. Fluoride delivers excellent protection for young, developing teeth against tooth decay, but must be used in the correct way and in a safe dosage to be effective. Fissure sealants offer a physical barrier against tooth decay in areas of a tooth that a toothbrush is often too large to clean properly. As discussed in an earlier blog, fillings provide protection for your child’s teeth to stop further tooth decay and prevent pain. If you have any questions about your children’s oral health or the importance of bringing your kids to the dentist, don’t hesitate to call us or visit our clinic in Vale Dental, Brookvale and we’ll be happy to discuss it with you.
