Is a Recent Toothache a Reason for an Extraction?

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Is a recent toothache a reason for an extraction? I moved here from Connecticut in July, so I haven’t had time to search out a dentist like I want thoroughly. I’ve had a lower jaw and toothache on the back left side of my mouth for two weeks. The pain comes and goes. I went to a nearby dentist who took an x-ray. She said that a molar that already has a filling in it has a large cavity. She recommends pulling the tooth and replacing it with a dental implant.

Does this sound right? I had no idea this was happening with the tooth because the pain started only two weeks ago, and it comes and goes. I haven’t had a throbbing toothache or significant discomfort in other ways. Thanks. – Victoria

Victoria – If the pain in your tooth just started, the tooth has only recently become infected. If a dentist cannot save the tooth, it would be more likely that you would have felt pain months ago. The tooth may be badly broken or decayed, and a dentist may think it is unsavable. Or, the dentist may want to remove the tooth rather than try to save it because of its condition and the time it would take to restore it.

Model of a dental implant with the crown, abutment, and root form labeled

A savable tooth may need root canal treatment,  not extraction and a dental implant

It is best to seek a second opinion without telling the second dentist about the diagnosis from the first dentist. Your independent second opinion should include an X-ray to determine the tooth’s condition. A dentist or endodontist may be able to save the tooth with root canal treatment. Otherwise, you may get a recommendation for an extraction and dental implant.

We advise patients to get second opinions before agreeing to significant treatment that is costly or will impact their oral health. For example, a missing tooth can lead to other concerns, including teeth drifting out of place and creating a need for braces to realign them.

Baton Rouge dentist Dr. Steven Brooksher sponsors this post. Read about his education and training, and learn what he does to provide some of the best dental care in Baton Rouge.

My Implant Dentures Messed Up My Bite

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My implant dentures are too big and messed up my bite. My dentist tried to adjust my bite four times, but it’s not working. The denture doesn’t fit well. Now, my mouth is burning and irritated, and I have hives on my inner lips and gums.  Could I be having an allergic reaction, too? Thanks. Miriam from New Orleans

Miriam,

It is possible to have an allergic reaction to your acrylic denture base. Titanium allergies are rare, but it is possible to react to dental implants. You would need testing to confirm whether you are allergic to denture materials. However, stressful dental visits are sometimes associated with burning mouth syndrome.

Your denture has disrupted your bite.  A dentist must correct it to prevent symptoms of jaw muscle spasms, headaches, and other symptoms of TMJ disorder. We recommend consulting a dentist with advanced training in occlusion and bite. The dentist can ensure upper and lower denture teeth meet correctly when you close your mouth or chew.

Denture above dental implants ready to be screwed on

Denture and implant position can affect your bite

Find a dentist with training from at least one of these dental education centers:

  • Spear Education in Arizona
  • The Dawson Academy in Florida
  • The L.D. Pankey Institute in Florida
  • The Las Vegas Institute for Advanced Dental Studies in Nevada

A disrupted bite can cause ongoing stress, leading to hives and oral irritation. Speak to the second-opinion dentist about your symptoms. The dentist will examine your mouth and denture and review your X-rays to determine whether the position of your denture, implants, or both are causing bite problems. Other factors can cause discomfort, and the dentist can identify them.

Schedule consultations with two dentists to discuss and compare their evaluations and treatment recommendations.

Baton Rouge dentist Dr. Steven Brooksher sponsors this post. Read about his education and training, and learn what he does to provide some of the best dental care in Baton Rouge.

Can a Dentist Save My Loose Implant?

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Last August, I had dental implant surgery. A periodontist placed the implant, and I returned to my regular dentist for a temporary crown. The dentist had difficulty getting the temporary crown on and forced it down. The crown hurt the entire time I had it.

My dentist kept saying everything was okay. He could not see anything wrong. Every time he touched the temporary crown, I felt even more pain, and I think he was afraid to try to remove it. I switched to a new dentist to get the permanent crown because I needed more confidence in my prior dentist. My new dentist says that the implant is loose. I know it is loose due to the trouble with the temporary crown. Can you give me an outside opinion on whether this can be fixed without removing the implant and doing it all over again? Thank you. Demetrius from Ohio

Demetrius,

Thank you for your question.

Can a Dentist Save Your Loose Implant?

A dental implant with the crown, abutment, and root form identified, for information on loose dental implants due to infection

A skilled implant dentist must take digital X-rays and examine your implant before determining whether they can save or remove it. Sometimes, eliminating infection around an implant or adding bone graft material can save it. If a dentist must remove it, you may require bone grafting and healing time before replacing the implant.

Why Do Dental Implants Loosen?

Reasons that a dental implant may loosen include:

  • The crown – The dental crown—not the implant itself—might be loose. If a dentist does not correctly place the crown, pressure can cause it to loosen.
  • Poor placement – If a dentist or surgeon places an implant in the wrong location, it can loosen.
  • Premature loading – Sometimes, pressure from attaching replacement teeth too soon can loosen implants.
  • Smoking – Blood vessels will constrict if you smoke during healing, and your jawbone and implants will not fuse.
  • Patient risks or habits during healing – If you grind your teeth, bite your nails, or deviate from a soft-food diet during the healing process, implants can loosen.
  • Gum disease – Infected tissue around implants can prevent your jawbone from integrating.
  • Lack of bone density – Jawbone supports implants. The implant fixtures won’t fuse to the jawbone if you lack bone density. They can easily loosen.

Select a dentist with advanced training and years of experience with dental implants or who works with a skilled oral surgeon for implant placement. Schedule at least two second-opinion appointments to compare your options.

Baton Rouge dentist Dr. Steven Brooksher sponsors this post. Dr. Brooksher is a Fellow of the International Congress of Oral Implantologists.

Two of My Permanent Teeth Never Erupted

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My permanent upper canine and incisor on the right never erupted. I still have small primary teeth that did not fall out. The teeth look weird because they are so small and don’t match the size of the surrounding teeth. I am 27 years old and trying to progress with my career. Can a dentist make the small teeth look larger, or is it best to get them removed and replaced with dental implants? Thank you – Andreas

Andreas,

Thank you for contacting Dr. Brooksher’s office in Baton Rouge regarding your canine and incisor teeth that never erupted. Dr. Brooksher would need to examine and x-ray your teeth before recommending appropriate treatment.

What Happens When Permanent Teeth Do Not Erupt?

When permanent teeth do not erupt, they may be impacted. An x-ray will help a dentist determine whether the permanent teeth have developed. If not, a dentist can create a treatment plan for dental implants.

Treatment options for permanent teeth that do not erupt

Treatment options for permanent teeth that do not erupt may include the following:

  • A dentist may remove the primary teeth and make an opening for permanent teeth to emerge.
  • A dentist may need to remove the primary teeth and replace them with dental implants. If the bone beneath the primary teeth is healthy, a dentist may place implants and temporary crowns on the same day. Otherwise, you may need a bone graft first.
  • A dentist will ensure you have enough space for a dental implant if primary teeth are absent. Sometimes, you may need orthodontics to make room for a dental implant.

We recommend scheduling consultations with two dentists with advanced training in implantology. Look for credentials from one of the following organizations:

  • International Congress of Oral Implantology
  • International Dental Implant Association
  • American Academy of Implant Dentistry
  • American Board of Oral Implantology

Ensure that each dentist has advanced cosmetic dentistry training to provide you with natural-looking implant crowns.

Baton Rouge dentist Dr. Steven Brooksher sponsors this post. Dr. Brooksher is a Fellow of the International Congress of Oral Implantologists.

 

Why Are My Gums Sore Between Two Teeth?

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My gums are sore between my first and second molar teeth. They hurt worse every time I eat, but the pain goes away within an hour. The pain is getting worse, but it’s limited to my gums. I don’t have any toothaches. My dentist completed an x-ray and said nothing was wrong with my teeth. One tooth is an old root canal tooth, but the gums hurt, not the tooth. My dentist says if the pain continues, he might recommend an extraction. Why would a dentist pull a tooth when the gums hurt? Is my dentist trying to upsell me for a dental implant? – Thank you. Keith from Shreveport

Keith,

Thank you for contacting Dentistry by Brooksher about your gum sensitivity. Dr. Brooksher would need to examine your gums, teeth, and x-rays to identify the source of your discomfort, but we will discuss some causes of gum sensitivity.

What Causes Gum Sensitivity?

Periodontal (gum) disease is often the cause of gum sensitivity and pain. According to the Centers for Disease Control, infection and inflammation from gum disease can cause the following symptoms:

  • A change in partial denture fit
  • A change in the way your teeth fit together
  • Bleeding gums
  • Chronic bad breath
  • Chronic bad taste
  • Gum recession
  • Loose teeth
  • Painful chewing
  • Red gums
  • Sensitive teeth
  • Swollen gums
  • Tender gums
Model of a dental implant with the crown, abutment, and root form labeled

Gum disease treatment can save teeth

You may have gum disease and a deep pocket between your teeth that can trap food particles that cause pain.

Will You Need Tooth Removal?

If your gums are sensitive, most likely you need gum disease treatment, not tooth removal and a dental implant. Even teeth that loosen from gum disease are often savable with root scaling and planing (deep cleaning). We recommend getting a second opinion from an experienced dentist to identify the source of your pain and explain treatment options to resolve it.

Baton Rouge dentist Dr. Steven Brooksher sponsors this post. Dr. Brooksher is a Fellow of the International Congress of Oral Implantologists.

 

Dentist Says an Implant Won’t Fit Where Tooth Is Missing

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My dentist says a dental implant won’t fit well in the space left from a missing tooth. When I was 15, I lost a tooth in an accident while horseback riding. Replacing the tooth was not an option for my parents. Now that I can afford it, I have seriously considered dental implants. My dentist shut me down on the idea, though. He says that my other teeth have shifted, and now the space is too small for an implant. So he wants to put a dental bridge in. He explained the process to me, and I really don’t like the idea of bothering my other teeth if I don’t have to. I would like to know if there is a way for me to get an implant. – Abell

Abell –

Thank you for contacting Dr. Brooksher’s office. We understand your concerns about getting a dental bridge instead of an implant.

Can You Get Implants If Your Teeth Shifted?

Model of a dental implant with the crown, abutment, and root form labeled

A dental implant mimics a natural tooth and does not need support from other teeth

If your teeth shifted, you may still be a candidate for dental implants. Your dentist may recommend orthodontics first to move your teeth to the correct position.

Reasons for getting braces may include:

  • Creating space. Proper tooth alignment creates space for a dental implant.
  • Correcting your bite. Well-aligned teeth improve your bite (how your upper and lower teeth meet).
  • Preventing other dental concerns. Depending on the factors that cause your teeth to shift, inserting a dental implant in a space may stress adjacent teeth. Although your teeth may move, the dental implant will not.

What If a Space Is Too Small for an Implant?

Dental implants are available in varying diameters that resemble the size of the missing tooth. Sometimes spaces between lower teeth are too small for a standard dental implant. When that happens, a dentist may choose an implant with a smaller diameter.

Dr. Steven Brooksher, a Baton Rouge fellow of implant dentistry, sponsors this post. Request a consultation with Dr. Brooksher today.

Can I Replace a Partial Denture with Dental Implants?

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My partial denture is for two missing teeth that I regret having extracted. Is it too late to get dental implants? I am only 44 years old and tired of wearing a partial denture. I have had gum disease treatment for over a year, and I think it’s best to look for alternatives that don’t wear out other teeth and my gums. Thank you. Alan from Snellville, GA

Alan,

Thank you for contacting Dr. Brooksher’s office.

Can You Replace a Partial Denture with Dental Implants?

Yes, you can replace a partial denture with dental implants. The replacement will be a healthier option for the teeth next to the missing ones and your gums. An implant dentist must complete a comprehensive exam, evaluate your gum and bone health, and determine what’s needed to give you healthy implants.

  • Gum health – Your gum tissue must snuggly form around dental implants to support them. An implant dentist will ensure your gums are healthy and do not interfere with healing.
  • Jawbone health – You need enough quality jawbone because the bone is the foundation for dental implants. An implant dentist must complete a 3-D CT scan to evaluate bone quality and volume. If you have experienced bone shrinkage, you may need bone grafting to ensure the implants have solid support.

BioMed Research International published an August 2021 article on the biomechanics of partial dentures. The article lists the possible effects of removable partial dentures on the adjacent teeth that support it, including:

  • Stress during function, insertion, and removal of the partial denture
  • Bone shrinkage
  • Loss of the teeth supporting the partial denture
  • Partial denture failure

What Are the Benefits of Replacing a Partial Denture with Dental Implants?

Model of a dental implant with the crown, abutment, and root form labeled

A dental implant mimics a natural tooth and does not need support from other teeth

The benefits of replacing a partial denture with dental implants include the following:

  • Longevity – Dental implants can last a lifetime—outlasting a partial denture or a dental bridge.
  • Healthy for adjacent teeth – Implants do not clip onto or cover adjacent teeth for support.
  • Jawbone stimulation – Tooth roots, like dental implants, stimulate the jawbone, preventing shrinkage of jawbone.
  • Appearance – A dental implant resembles a natural tooth emerging through your gums. You will not have unsightly clasps on your teeth like a partial denture.

We recommend consulting with two credentialed implant dentists to discuss your options.

Baton Rouge dentist Dr. Steven Brooksher sponsors this post. Dr. Brooksher is a Fellow of the International Congress of Oral Implantologists. Read how he strives to give patients some of the best dental care in Baton Rouge.

Dentist Won’t Place Implants Until I Get Wisdom Teeth Removed

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My upper right first and second bicuspid teeth have been missing since I was 16 years old. Two years ago, I started saving for dental implants. I saw an implant dentist two months ago, and she did a 3D scan of my teeth and noticed my impacted wisdom teeth. She asked if I had any complications, and I told her that my wisdom teeth hurt regularly and had felt worse within the past five months.

The dentist recommended getting my wisdom teeth out before I get dental implants because if the wisdom teeth flare up during dental implant recovery, I could have a rough time. She referred me to an oral surgeon. I am 42 years old and terrified of wisdom teeth removal because of my age. All my wisdom teeth are impacted, and two are angled near a nerve. I am afraid of nerve damage from the surgery. I read about a procedure that can take off the tops of the teeth. Would I qualify for that? Do I really need to get my wisdom teeth out before getting dental implants? Thanks. Micah from Lexington, KY

Micah,

Thank you for your question. We understand your disappointment about delaying a dental implant procedure to get your wisdom teeth removed. But your dentist is correct. If your wisdom teeth flare up during your four months of recovery after dental implant surgery, you can experience much discomfort.

What Happens If Your Wisdom Tooth Is Near a Nerve?

If your wisdom tooth is near a nerve, your oral surgeon will use a 3-D CT scan to navigate around the nerve while removing the tooth. Wisdom teeth are near two nerves, the lingual nerve, and the alveolar nerve.

  • Lingual nerve – Supplies sensation to the floor of your mouth and the front two-thirds of the tongue
  • Alveolar nerve – Supplies sensation to your lower lip and skin over your chin

If a wisdom tooth has long roots entangled in nerves, some oral surgeons perform a procedure called a coronectomy.

What Is a Coronectomy?

A coronectomy is a surgical procedure that removes the crown of a wisdom tooth and leaves the roots intact. A surgeon may use this method to prevent touching nerves. The procedure is controversial because using tooth roots behind can create new risks, and your oral surgeon may not use it.

What Happens If Wisdom Teeth Removal Bruises a Nerve?

Model of a dental implant with the crown, abutment, and root form labeled

Dental implants need to be undistrubed in a healthy environment

If wisdom teeth removal bruises a nerve, the effects are usually temporary but can last up to 18 months. As the nerve heals, you may experience numbness or tingling in these areas:

  • Tongue
  • Lower lip
  • Skin over your chin

We encourage you to schedule a consultation with a board-certified oral surgeon to discuss your concerns and the state of your wisdom teeth. The surgeon will explain your options for sedation to relieve your anxiety during the procedure.

After dental implant surgery, avoiding disturbing the implants and preventing them from fusing with your jawbone is essential. Delaying wisdom teeth removal and needing emergency surgery could interrupt dental implant healing and recovery.

Baton Rouge dentist Dr. Steven Brooksher sponsors this post. Dr. Brooksher is a Fellow of the International Congress of Oral Implantologists.

Can Teeth Grinding Loosen Dental Implants?

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My dentist placed three dental implants last August. One implant is loose. When I got the implants, my dentist made a custom night guard to wear because I grind my teeth. I don’t wear it because I hate the thing. It’s so hard to get used to it, and it is very difficult to sleep when I wear it. Could my not wearing the night guard be the reason why the implant is loose? Is this going to happen with the other 2 implants? I am embarrassed. I will have a hard time facing my dentist and telling him that I have not been wearing the night guard. I want to know before seeing him if this could really be my fault. Thank you for your time. TJ

TJ – Thank you for contacting Dr. Brooksher’s office. The only way to be sure about the cause of your loose implant is to have it examined.

Can Teeth Grinding Loosen Dental Implants?

Dental implant model with the fixture in the bone

Pressure from teeth grinding can weaken a dental implant

Teeth grinding (bruxism) at night puts extra pressure on dental implants and can loosen them. If you grind your teeth while you sleep, it is vital to wear a night guard to avoid damaging your implants. You should wear the night guard while implants heal and afterward.

It is best to find out now why your implant has loosened. You have two other implants that your dentist must observe. If the preventive measure is as simple as wearing a night guard, you should know that now and ensure the success of your implants.

What Happens If an Implant Is Loose?

If your dentist will examine your implant and the area around it to determine if he can stabilize it. If not, your dentist must remove the implant. Depending on the condition of the implant and the area around it, you may need bone grafting before your dentist places another implant. Although you might be embarrassed, scheduling an appointment with your dentist is important. Also, if your mouth guard is excessively uncomfortable, your dentist may need to check it for fit.

 

Baton Rouge dentist Dr. Steven Brooksher sponsors this post. Dr. Brooksher is a Fellow of the International Congress of Oral Implantologists.

What Are My Options for Teeth Broken Near Edge of My Gums?

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I am wondering if dental implants are my only option. I have three teeth that are about two-thirds broken off. The break almost hit my gumline. I was biking on an unfamiliar trail that wasn’t in good condition. It’s a scenic trail, but I didn’t get enough information about its condition. I hit a huge hole that sent me flying off the bike. There was more damage to my lips and teeth than to the bike. I always wear a helmet and am fortunate not to have a concussion. I do not know any biker who wears a mouthguard, but I am seriously considering it now that my left front and center teeth and the two next to them broke. Amazingly, the teeth do not hurt unless I mistakenly chew on them. I have a dentist, but he is only two years out of dental school, so before I let him do anything to my mouth or refer me to a specialist, I wonder if there are options other than dental implants. – Thank you. Raymond from Tampa, FL

Raymond,

Thank you for your question.

You did not mention when you had the accident, but it is best not to delay getting treatment. Although you do not feel any pain, the trauma to your teeth and their continued exposure increases the risk of infection.

What Are Your Options for Teeth Broken Near the Gumline?

Dental implant with markers for crown, abutment, and root formIf your teeth break near the gumline, your dentist needs to examine and x-ray them to determine the extent of the damage. Tooth replacement options may include a dental implant or a dental bridge.

Dental implants

Dental implants are the best form of tooth replacement for several reasons:

  • They minimize the bone loss that occurs when teeth are missing
  • They will look and function like your natural teeth.
  • The results can last a lifetime.

The implant process takes longer than other tooth replacement options because it involves surgery and time for your jawbone to fuse with the implants before getting your final dental crowns. Still, the results outlast other tooth replacement options.

Dental bridge

A dental bridge can restore multiple missing teeth in a row. It consists of dental crowns joined at their sides. The teeth on either side of the missing ones will anchor the bridge. A dentist must reduce the size of the anchor teeth to ensure the crowns on the ends of the bridge fit over them.

If possible, look for a dentist with advanced implant and cosmetic dentistry training and accreditation. After your exam and x-rays, the dentist will explain your options and their pros and cons.

Dr. Steven Brooksher, a Baton Rouge accredited cosmetic dentist and Fellow of implantology, sponsors this post. Read about what Dr. Brooksher does to provide patients some of the best dental care in Baton Rouge.