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Keep smiling through solutions to help with the gradual loss of your teeth
In cases of advanced disease affecting multiple teeth and/or the whole mouth, teeth can be removed in a carefully managed way where the patient is not ready to have all the teeth removed at once. The main goal of this treatment is to remove the on-going infection from the mouth and body, and improve oral comfort. Teeth are gradually removed when they become severely infected, loose, or broken. Once all teeth have been lost, a plan to restore the mouth can be made.
When/why should you choose this option?
- You have multiple teeth missing and your remaining natural teeth are unhealthy too.
- You would prefer to avoid complex treatments to save teeth that are decayed.
- You are ready to accept losing all your teeth in a gradual manner.
What do you need to be aware of?
- The remaining natural teeth may need to be extracted one by one until they are all lost.
- It is important to be able to perform everyday functions, such as eating and speaking, while being treated in this way. Therefore, an interim plan may need to be devised based on your individual situation. Temporary solutions may not appeal to you aesthetically, or offer an optimum level of comfort, but they are only designed for use in the shorter term.
- Once all the teeth are lost, a long-term plan for your mouth will be necessary, such as a set of complete dentures or other prostheses to replace your entire set of teeth.
What will you need to do to improve your chance of long-term success?
- Thorough oral hygiene and regular dental visits may prolong the survival of your natural teeth. Once all teeth have been lost and a replacement denture is in place, keeping your mouth and denture(s) clean will continue to be important.
- Regular check-ups are important even when you have no teeth. It is especially important to visit the dentist if your dentures are uncomfortable or do not fit properly.
What if there are problems?
- If you fail to adapt to your replacement denture(s), discuss all your options with your dentist. Modern dentistry offers many alternatives. Together, you and your dentist can determine the best course of action for you.
What other factors do we need to consider?
- Invasiveness of procedure: High if teeth need to be extracted.
- Treatment fees: Dependent on the number of tooth extractions required and the final restoration plan.
How does this option affect you?
This treatment approach aims to remove infection and pain so that you are able to lead a better quality of life. During the transitional phase as tooth loss is being managed, the temporary solution may not offer the same benefits as the final restoration, which is the end goal.