Dealing with Missing and Deformed Incisors
Posted by writeradmin
I have problems with both my upper lateral incisors. One of them is deformed and slightly recessed. The other is missing and has been forever. It just never came in. After having braces to open up the spot for the missing tooth I got a dental flipper. However, I am looking for a more permanent solution. What would you recommend for someone in my situation?
Amelia
Dear Amelia,
I’m going to start with the deformed tooth. Depending on the size and shape of the tooth, you would either repair it with a dental crown or a porcelain veneer. For either one, you would want to use an expert cosmetic dentist. The best cosmetic dentists are accredited with the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD). Bear in mind that accreditation is different from membership. Any dentist can be a member of the AACD. However, to become accredited you have to prove both your technical knowledge and artistic skill. This requires passing stringent exams as well as providing visual evidence of their artistry with a large number of specific cases they’ve presented to a board of examiners and passed.
For the missing tooth, the best solution is a dental implant. This uses a prosthetic tooth root and then a porcelain crown is placed on top. Both parts of this require expertise. First, you need someone with post-doctoral training in dental implants. It’s an advanced procedure and a LOT can go wrong. Make sure when you do this that it is the dentist who determines the placement of the implant and NOT the oral surgeon. This is important. After the implant is ready and integrated with the bone, an implant crown will be placed on it.
I want to stress again, this is one of those cases where it is very difficult to get things to match your natural teeth, while looking beautiful and natural. An AACD accredited dentist has the skills to do that. Even if you have to travel to another city to get it done, it will be worth it.
This blog is brought to you by Franklin, TN Cosmetic Dentist Dr. Christopher Weber.
