Quick Take
A social media post claims a missing tooth can be replaced with a self-made artificial tooth without a dentist. We fact-checked and found this claim to be False.
The Claim
A Facebook post with the caption, “Save the high cost of going to the dentist.
Repair damaged teeth easily.
Fact Check
Should a missing tooth be replaced without a dentist?
No. A missing tooth or a set of missing teeth should never be replaced with Do-it-yourself or DIY techniques without a dentist. The DIY crowns or dentures are not safe because they require proper training and expertise to fit and create. Without proper knowledge and training, the DIY approach can lead to ill-fitting or improperly placed dental devices, which can cause discomfort, pain, infection, and even damage to adjacent teeth and gums.
DIY dentures or crowns may cause the food particles to get lodged between the plastic and surrounding teeth or gums. This can cause decay, bad breath, and even tooth loss. In the long term, this could lead to irreversible gum recession and bone loss. Moreover, any object inserted into the mouth poses a potential choking hazard as it can dislodge and get trapped in the windpipe or food pipe anytime.
In addition, a dentist can identify and address underlying dental issues that may contribute to tooth loss, such as decay or gum disease, and prevent further damage or tooth loss.
Dr. Pooja Bhardwaj, B.D.S. further elaborates on this by stating that, “It depends on whether a patient is a child or an adult. When a young child loses their milk (primary) tooth, it is replaced by their own permanent teeth. Adults require assistance from a dentist. Their job is to guide the patient with all possible options, such as implants, fixed bridge, flipper(removable partial denture), and Maryland Bridge, along with treatment cost and long-term durability. Missing teeth may hinder aesthetics, functionality, and difficulty eating and speaking. The adjacent teeth might shift and narrow the space. There are ample options and the latest advancements available. One must always consult a dentist for possible outcomes.”
How does a dentist replace a missing tooth?
A dentist can replace a missing tooth in several ways, depending on the patient’s specific needs and circumstances. The dentist will evaluate the patient’s oral health, medical history, and preferences before recommending the most suitable option.
Here are some common methods that are used to replace missing teeth:
- Dental implants – a small structure made if alloplastic material is surgically inserted into the jawbone, where it fuses with the bone over time. An artificial tooth is then attached to the post.
- Bridges – a bridge is a dental appliance that replaces 2 or more missing teeth. It consists of two crowns that are attached to the natural teeth on either side of the gap, with an artificial tooth in between.
- Partial dentures – a removable dental appliance that replaces one or more missing teeth. It consists of an artificial tooth attached to a metal or plastic framework that clips onto the remaining natural teeth.
- Complete dentures – a removable acrylic dental appliance that replaces all the teeth in the upper or lower jaw. They are custom-made to fit the patient’s mouth and are held in place with suction or dental adhesive.
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