When a tooth is lost
You may believe that with 31 other teeth in your mouth, the loss of just one isn’t important. That is not true. A single missing tooth leaves more than a flaw in the cosmetic appearance of your smile. Your teeth rely on one another for structural support. When a tooth is missing, its neighbors gradually shift out of alignment. Now, in addition to a gap, you have crooked teeth. They create food traps that can lead to decay and gum disease, and make it more difficult to brush and floss efficiently. A full set of teeth also helps to maintain the balance of the bite. Depending on its position, a missing tooth may force you to chew on one side, causing usual wear, and possibly triggering TMJ disorders.

Bridging a divided smile
A dental bridge is a non-removable restoration that anchors an artificial tooth into place at the site of one that is missing. Teeth on either side of the gap are shaped and prepared. Then, Dr. Jones takes digital impressions of your mouth. A robust software application uses this information to design the crowns and attached pontic (artificial tooth). The bridge is fabricated from strong, lustrous ceramic, and cemented into place. In many cases, Dr. Jones can complete a dental bridge in one visit, using CEREC technology. The ceramic material looks very natural, and the bridge is metal-free and biocompatible. Dr. Jones provides instructions on home hygiene to keep your bridge sparkling clean and your mouth healthy. With good care, the bridge will last many years.


The sooner you have a missing tooth replaced, the better for your appearance, oral health, and whole-body wellness. However, please don’t hesitate to call Dr. Jones, even if it has been awhile since you lost the tooth. He will work with you to determine if a tooth bridge is your best option. Call Social Circle Dental at 770-464-1900 to schedule a consultation.
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Watch what you eat – Sugar is in many of the beverages we drink and foods we eat, and too much sugar can lead to tooth decay. When you do consume foods or drinks with a high quantity of sugar, such as hard candy, cupcakes, soda, and fruit juice try to brush your teeth afterwards or rinse your mouth with water.


Proper care at home – Be sure that you're brushing and flossing, and be sure that you're doing it with the correct technique. Find a soft toothbrush and a brand of toothpaste that you like and use short, circular, and gentle motions to get rid of surface bacteria without damaging the gum line. Use floss to remove plaque that settles between the teeth. In addition, when was the last time that you replaced your toothbrush? If it's been more than two or three months, it's time to get a new one.


Cut the tobacco habits – Smoking and chewing tobacco are not just harmful to your overall health; they damage your mouth as well. The nicotine and tar can not only discolor your teeth, they also eat away at your gums, creating the perfect environment for plaque and bacteria to develop and grow.


Use your teeth properly – While your teeth are strong, they can break. Protect your teeth with a mouth guard when playing sports where you could be hit in the mouth. Also, don't use your teeth to open packaging or bottles and avoid chewing on hard items such as candy, pens, or ice.
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Visit the dentist – Brushing, avoiding sugar and tobacco, and protecting your teeth at home are all essential to having a healthy mouth. Keeping up with your dental checkups is also critical. Dentists can catch potential problems before they cause bigger issues, they can provide tips for improving your at-home care, and you receive a professional cleaning that can't be replicated at home.


Dr. Jones believes that a healthy mouth is essential in having a healthy body and sense of wellbeing. He treats every patient with gentle care, a friendly nature, and in the least-invasive manner possible. Call today to schedule an appointment.