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?
If 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.
