Tips to Save a Tooth That is Knocked Out

If you want one or several dental implants, then you should understand that implant devices are restorations that are the closest thing to real teeth. However, the restorations may feel slightly different than real teeth. While you will feel some pressure along the jaw, the tooth itself will obviously release no pain or pressure sensations. This may mean that you can place a great deal of pressure on the implant without knowing it. This can cause some jaw distress, and you may also crack the dental crown. You should learn about some tips to reduce these concerns.

Speak With Your Dentist About Grinding

If your jaw feels tight in the morning or if you feel some pain from the jaw when you first wake up, then you may be grinding your teeth at night. Increased tooth sensitivity and the obvious wear of the natural teeth are signs of bruxism too. If you do grind your teeth, then you are placing immense stress on both the root and the crown of the implant. Minuscule cracks can form in the jaw bone around the root. In rare and serious cases, this can lead to the loosening of the root device. Also, crown damage is likely.

If you suspect that you grind your teeth, then it is wise to see your dentist as soon as possible. The professional can and will make a mouth guard for you. Wear the guard every night to prevent implant damage. While the guard is made for you at a dental laboratory, make sure to purchase a device that can protect the implant in the meantime. You can purchase a device at your local pharmacy. The best one is a device that can be heated in the microwave and can be formed to the teeth afterwards.

Watch What You Eat

If a dental implant has been secured to replace a molar or a premolar, then the crown cemented to the root will be much wider. In fact, the crown is likely to contain several millimeters of porcelain. This means that the artificial tooth can retain more stress and pressure. However, if you eat hard foods and tough meats, then you may regularly put your implant through its paces. 

To reduce grinding and gnawing stress, try to eat lean and soft meats like fish, chicken, and turkey instead of more fibrous meats like beef and pork. Also, do not chew on ice and keep things like popcorn kernels, pretzels, and other tough and extremely crunchy foods out of the mouth. Softer snacks and foods are best to reduce implant stress. 

For additional advice, contact a location like Summit Oral Surgery.