It’s kind of strange when you think about the fact that in an entire lifetime, humans only grow two sets of teeth. This means we only get limited shots at caring for and keeping our pearly whites. But what happens if you have a baby tooth that never fell out? Great news – there are options! Here are a few of them.
Keep the Tooth
It’s been with you for a long time, and like any other cherished piece of memorabilia, you can leave it alone and call it good. While saving your tiny tusk might seem like the easiest thing to do, leaving it alone is usually not recommended, as it can cause problems with your adult teeth coming in. It can also be difficult to keep clean, and cavities or gum disease can develop. So if you’re planning on keeping your baby tooth, be sure to visit your dentist regularly for check-ups and cleaning and to have your dentist monitor any shifting in your teeth as a result of spacing.
Have It Removed
If you’re not attached to your baby tooth and would rather have it removed, that’s an option too. Having it removed is recommended if it’s causing problems with the alignment of your adult teeth or if it’s difficult to keep clean. Dental professionals like Brandywine Dental Services Group can help with this. They can numb the area around your tooth and gums and remove the tooth quickly and easily. This allows space for your adult tooth or other gap-filling solutions.
Partial Extraction
If your baby tooth is only partially erupted and is causing problems with the alignment of your adult teeth, your dentist may recommend a partial extraction. This involves numbing the area around your tooth and gums and removing only the portion of the tooth that’s visible. The roots of the tooth will eventually dissolve and the tooth will fall out on its own.
Replacement With an Implant
If you’re not attached to your tooth and would rather get it replaced, one option is getting an implant. Dental implants are titanium posts that are surgically placed in your jawbone to act as a replacement for your natural tooth root. Once the implant is in place, a dental crown is placed on top to give you a natural-looking tooth.
Dental Veneers
Another option for replacing your baby tooth is with dental veneers. Veneers are thin shells of porcelain that are placed over your natural teeth to give them a more uniform look. Veneers can be used to fill in gaps, cover stains, and even change the shape or size of your teeth.
No matter what you decide to do with your baby tooth, be assured that your dentist is there to help. They can help you weigh the pros and cons of each option and make a decision that’s best for you.
