If you’re considering getting dental implants, you’re probably excited about the idea of having a beautiful, healthy-looking smile again. But if you’ve got natural teeth remaining you may be wondering if they should be replaced, too. After all, you want your smile to match. But while removing an otherwise healthy tooth may seem like a good idea for cosmetic reasons, there are a few very important reasons why it’s not. Here’s why you should keep your natural teeth for as long as possible.
The Benefits of Natural Teeth
Your natural teeth are important for not just helping make a beautiful smile, but also for having other benefits, too. For starters, they help maintain the integrity of your jawbone. This will not only help you keep your other teeth in alignment, but it will also prevent further tooth loss and bone degradation.
Furthermore, your natural teeth have a greater biteforce than any form of dental prosthetics, including dental implants, so they’re easier to chew with, too.
What if My Natural Teeth Are Damaged?
If your permanent teeth are stained, chipped, cracked, or have cavities or infection, it is still better to repair them than to replace them. Your dentist can treat discoloration with professional whitening or veneers, or repair chips or cracks with direct bonding. For teeth that have cavities or infection, fillings, crowns or a root canal may be employed to save the tooth.
Repairing a damaged tooth has financial benefits, too. Most procedures are usually much more affordable than replacements, so you’ll save your teeth and your money at the same time.
When Should I Have My Tooth Removed?
While it is important to keep your natural teeth for as long as you can, there are still some instances where it is best to have them extracted. Your dentist might recommend removal in the following circumstances:
- Infection
- A loose tooth due to advanced periodontal (gum) disease
- A tooth with a cavity too large to restore
- Wisdom tooth decay
- A deep tooth fracture
- A tooth with a failed root canal
- For orthodontic purposes, such as to create space for straightening
If you are considering dental implants but still have healthy teeth, don’t throw away a good thing. Your dentist can help you repair and restore your healthy permanent teeth so that your new implants fit right into your beautiful smile!
About Dr. Shkurti
Dr. Eduart Shkurti is skilled in all areas of dentistry, from general exams to cosmetic procedures and dental implants. He is an active member of the American Dental Association, The New York Dental Society, and the Astoria County Dental Society. He is also an avid supporter of Doctors without Borders and is fluent in both English and Albanian.
To learn more about dental implants, schedule an appointment at ED Family Dental by visiting our website or calling 646-713-0132.