Oral health issues can progress in very different ways, from a gradual accumulation of wear or decay to sudden, unexpected damage. If you are concerned about a tooth that feels loose or is causing pain, it is best to contact a qualified dentist as soon as possible. They will be able assess your concerns and offer treatment options with the primary goal of saving as much of the natural tooth structure as possible. Alternatively, if the tooth is too damaged to be preserved and requires extraction, they can help you explore restorative dentistry solutions to keep you smiling confidently.
Our experienced cosmetic dentist, Colin Morton, DDS, has helped many patients save or replace their failing teeth over the years. Below, he discusses common procedures that can help address loose or damaged teeth to restore brilliant dental form and function.
Dental Crowns
Porcelain dental crowns are a type of cover or “cap” that can be placed over a tooth that has been damaged or worn down. Each crown is custom-designed to match the color, shape, and shade of the surrounding teeth, and the material used is incredibly durable, which increases the strength of the tooth. Crowns are often placed over cracked, worn, or otherwise damaged teeth, and they can be used to provide structural support and aesthetic rejuvenation after a root canal or large filling. They can also be used to anchor a dental bridge or top a dental implant restoration.
Dental Implants
Dental implants are an innovative restorative dentistry technique designed to replicate the entirety of the tooth structure, and they are an increasingly popular choice due to their superior stability, functionality, and aesthetics. The treatment process typically involves:
- Extracting the loose or damaged tooth
- Implanting a metal post (which replicates the tooth root) into the jawbone
- Allowing time—typically a few months—for the osseointegration phase, during which the implant should fuse with the jawbone, becoming a permanent part of the mouth
- Topping the post with an abutment (connecting element)
- Attaching a dental crown (or other restoration) to the abutment
In addition to providing a more natural look, feel, and function, dental implants can also help better support your long-term health by stimulating the jawbone and preventing the bone resorption often associated with tooth loss. Dr. Morton can further discuss your candidacy for this procedure during a consultation.
Implant Dentures
If you have multiple failing teeth—or even an entire dental arch in need of replacement—an implant-supported bridge or denture can provide a partial or full arch restoration. While traditional removable dentures are typically held in place using an oral adhesive, this alternative uses dental implant posts anchored into the jawbone to securely affix the dentures within the mouth. Patients who have switched from traditional dentures to implant-supported dentures often report that they provide a more secure, comfortable, and natural-looking fit. We have partnered with several local surgeons to provide a streamlined workflow called TeethXpress to ensure a predictable final outcome. Dr. Morton is a certified TeethXpress provider, and he can help qualified patients enjoy enhanced dental function and aesthetics with a quick and affordable treatment process.
If you are concerned about a tooth that is loose or potentially failing, please contact our practice today. Our team is devoted to providing exceptional care and will be happy to answer questions or schedule an appointment for you.
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