With the rise of TikTok and Youtube Shorts, DIY culture has absolutely exploded in recent years. The prospect of having a project to work on and saving money in the process can be appealing, and in some situations can even be a smart choice.
However, dentistry is a different story. Recently, you might have seen some DIY tooth replacements that claim to let you circumvent the need for dentures or dental bridges. Here’s what you should know about them before you give them a shot, as well as a little bit more information about how real dentists handle tooth replacement.
The Problem with DIY Tooth Replacement
Typically, methods of replacing teeth that you’ll find over the counter or at your local supermarket are far worse than what you’d get from a dentist. There are a variety of moldable polymer and wax products that claim they can be shaped to appear like a natural tooth, and that they can slot easily into the gap in your smile.
However, the materials that they’re made out of are subpar to say the least, and are often unable to produce the results that they promise. Not only is it unlikely that they’ll fool anyone, they probably won’t have the security to stay in place long term. The surrounding teeth are still likely to move to fill the gap in your smile, leading to misalignment and further aesthetic complications.
How A Professional Would Help You Replace Teeth
If you want tooth replacement that will not only last but look fantastic the entire time, a dentist or prosthodontist will be happy to help you. Dental implants are one of the most celebrated methods of replacing teeth, offering durability and bite strength that you would struggle to find in any other method of tooth replacement.
By surgically implanting a false tooth in the jaw, you can enjoy a new smile for well over 30 years provided that you take care of it well. All this to say that if you want to get a smile you can be proud of, you should talk to someone who knows what they’re doing.
About the Author
Dr. Breanne Anderson is well aware of the difference that a qualified specialist can make at the right place and time. That’s why she endeavors to always stay at the top of her field, staying prepared to help her patients when they need her. Dr. Anderson graduates with honors from Tufts University and received her Prosthodontics and Implant Surgery Certification from the University of Connecticut. She is a Diplomate of the American Board of Prosthodontics and a Fellow of the American College of Prosthodontics.
If you have any questions about dental implants, she can be reached at her website or by phone at (239) 688-4404.