Austin Laser Dentist - Helen Ragsdale DDS, 11615 Angus Rd Ste 101, Austin 78759, United States (US) - Phone: 512 346-4690

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Dentist in Austin, TX, Reveals 5 Reasons to Replace Missing Teeth ASAP

It can be tempting to delay replacing a missing tooth, thinking it’s just a cosmetic issue. But there’s so much more at stake. Whether you replace missing teeth with dental implants or other restorations, restoring your smile is crucial. Our dentist in Austin, TX, is here to explain.

Tooth loss has a compounding effect, causing difficulties and setbacks in almost every aspect of your life. But when you replace missing teeth quickly, you can avoid the hardships that typically follow tooth loss. Contact Austin Laser Dentist in Austin, TX, at (512) 346-4690 to repair your smile quickly and effortlessly!

Now, let’s dive into five compelling reasons why you should replace missing teeth as soon as possible with our dentist in Austin, TX.

1. Prevent Your Teeth from Shifting

Think of your teeth as a close-knit team. When one player is out, the others scramble to fill the gap. This means that your teeth start to shift to fill the space left by a missing tooth, leading to misalignment and bite problems. 

This movement can cause discomfort and make cleaning your teeth harder, increasing the risk of cavities and gum disease. Replacing your missing tooth keeps your smile in line – literally!

2. Maintain Your Jawbone Health

Did you know that your jawbone is a bit like a muscle? It needs regular stimulation to stay strong and healthy. When you lose a tooth, the bone in that area begins to deteriorate over time due to lack of stimulation. This can lead to a sunken appearance in your face, making you look older. 

Dental implants, in particular, help keep your jawbone engaged and healthy, preventing bone loss and preserving your youthful appearance.

3. Chew Comfortably Again

Eating your favorite foods can become a challenge when you’re missing a tooth (or two). That gap can make chewing difficult or uncomfortable, leading you to avoid certain foods altogether. 

But life is too short to miss out on delicious meals! Replacing your missing tooth with our dentist in Austin, TX, allows you to chew with ease, enjoy your food fully, and maintain proper nutrition without compromise.

4. Boost Your Confidence

Let’s face it: a missing tooth can make you feel self-conscious, whether you’re aware of it or not. It might make you hesitant to smile, speak up in meetings, or even laugh with friends. Replacing that missing tooth can do wonders for your self-esteem. 

5. Avoid Future Dental Issues

The domino effect is real when it comes to missing teeth. What starts as a simple gap can lead to a whole host of other dental issues down the road, like gum disease, tooth decay, and even more tooth loss. 

Addressing the problem early with our dentist in Austin, TX, helps you replace the missing tooth, saving you time, money, and a lot of discomfort in the long run. Think of it as a small investment in your future dental health!

Missing Teeth? Our Dentist in Austin, TX, Can Help!

Whether you choose dental implants or other restorations, the benefits of restoring your smile with our dentist in Austin, TX, cannot be overstated. So, don’t wait – take the first step towards a healthier, happier smile today by calling Austin Laser Dentist at (512) 346-4690 or send us a message here to get started!

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Keep Dentures Longer with These Tips and Tricks

A picture of dentures laying on a table to demonstrate teeth replacement options in Austin, TX

Dentures are a great way to address significant tooth loss. These restorative dental prosthetics help patients replace entire arches of missing teeth, which helps restore their speaking and chewing functions. But, more than that, dentures can help boost patients’ confidence in their smiles, allowing them to live their lives to the fullest. 

If you’re living with missing teeth, it’s time to talk to a skilled dentist in Austin, TX. Our gentle dentist, Dr. Helen Ragsdale, can help you explore all of your restorative options at Austin Laser Dentist. Patients can talk to our team and request appointments by calling (512) 346-4690 now!

Dentures are not an inexpensive oral prosthetic. Indeed, they are an investment in your oral health, and they should be properly cared for to ensure their longevity. In this blog, we share some helpful tips and tricks for making your dentures last longer.

Denture Longevity Tips and Tricks

There are plenty of things we can do to get the most out of our prosthetics. Let’s review them now.

Proper Cleaning

Regular cleaning is crucial for maintaining the integrity of your dentures. Just like natural teeth, dentures can accumulate plaque and bacteria, leading to discoloration, bad breath, and even infections.

Make sure to clean your dentures daily with a denture brush and mild soap or denture cleaner.

Soaking

Soaking your dentures in a denture cleaner or solution overnight can help remove stubborn stains and bacteria. However, be sure to always avoid using hot water. Hot water can warp the prosthesis, ultimately ruining the device.

Handle with Care

Dentures are delicate and can easily break or crack if mishandled. When removing or inserting dentures, do it carefully, and avoid using excessive force. 

Always place a towel or cushion on the counter to prevent the dentures from falling and breaking.

Regular Check-Ups

Visit your dentist regularly to ensure that:

  • -Your dentures fit properly 
  • -They are in good working condition
  • -Your gums and jaws are healthy

Your dentist can identify any potential issues early on and make the necessary adjustments before they become huge problems.

Avoid Abrasive Products

Using abrasive products (like harsh, whitening toothpastes, hard-bristled toothbrushes, or acidic cleansers) can damage dentures. Stick to using mild products specifically designed for dentures to avoid causing damage (here is a list of ADA-approved dentures products).

Be Careful with Food

Dentures are not as strong as natural teeth. So, avoid eating hard, crunchy, or sticky foods that can damage or dislodge the dentures. Cut your food into small pieces and chew slowly to prevent any accidents.

Store Dentures Properly

When not wearing your dentures, store them in a clean, safe place (keeping them wet is always preferable, too!). Avoid leaving them in hot or cold temperatures. Always keep your dentures out of reach of children and pets to avoid accidental damage.

Don’t Attempt Repairs Yourself

If your dentures become damaged or broken, do not try to fix them yourself. Do-It-Yourself repairs can cause further damage and make the dentures unusable. Always seek professional help from your dentist.

Traditional and Implant-Supported Dentures in Austin, TX

Taking care of your dentures is essential for maintaining their longevity and ensuring their continued function. If you’re interested in seeing if dentures are right for you, then contact Dr. Helen Ragsdale at Austin Laser Dentist. Patients can reach our dental office in Austin, TX, online here or at (512) 346-4690.

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How to Increase the Lifespan of Your Dental Bridge

dental bridge being attached to dental implants

A dental bridge is a popular solution for replacing missing teeth, especially one or more missing teeth in a row. They consist of artificial teeth which a dentist attaches to neighboring natural teeth or dental implants. As a restorative dentistry treatment, teeth bridges are a long-term investment in your oral health.

Replacing missing teeth is key to maintaining good oral and systemic health for life. So, if you’re living with tooth loss, then it’s time to restore your smile at Austin Laser Dentist. Patients can request appointments with Dr. Helen Ragsdale in Austin, TX, by calling (512) 346-4690 now!

It is important to take proper care of oral prosthetics to ensure they last as long as possible. In this blog post, we discuss how to increase the lifespan of a dental bridge to save you valuable time and money.

Always Practice Good Oral Hygiene

Practicing good oral hygiene is the most important step in maintaining the lifespan of a dental bridge. Be sure to:

  • -Floss your teeth and under the bridge at least once a day
  • -Brush at least twice a day
  • -Drink plenty of water throughout the day
  • -Limit sugary and acidic treats 

Our Austin dentist recommends using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste to clean your teeth and bridge. Also, patients consider using an interdental brush or water flosser to clean around the bridge.

Avoid Overly Hard or Sticky Foods

Hard and sticky foods can damage a dental bridge or cause it to become loose. Hard foods that can crack or damage a bridge may include:

  • -Hard candy
  • -Popcorn kernels
  • -Nuts

But, hard foods aren’t the only foods to avoid. Patients should also avoid very sticky foods, such as:

  • -Caramel
  • -Taffy
  • -Chewing gum

Instead of these foods, we recommend choosing softer, healthier foods that are easier on your teeth and bridge, such as:

  • -Lean proteins
  • -Cooked vegetables
  • -Fresh fruits
  • -Dairy products
  • -Cooked legumes 

Choose Dental Bridge Cleaning Products Wisely

While it is important to clean your dental bridge, be cautious with the cleaning products that you use. For example, patients should avoid abrasive toothpastes or cleaning agents, which can scratch or damage the bridge. Instead, patients should use a non-abrasive toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush to clean the bridge.

Don’t Use Tobacco Products

Tobacco products can have a negative impact on your oral health and the lifespan of a dental bridge. We recommend quitting all tobacco products (including smokeless), even if you don’t have a dental prosthetic. 

Protect Your Teeth and Dental Bridge with a Mouthguard

If you play contact sports or grind your teeth at night, wearing a mouthguard can help protect your dental bridge. Custom-fitted mouthguards fit snugly over the teeth and prosthetic, which protects them from injury and bruxism. 

Visit Your Dentist Regularly

Frequent visits to your dentist are a great way to avoid dental issues. These visits also help keep dental prosthetics in optimal working order. We recommend visiting your dentist at least two times a year to get the most out of your dental bridge.

Ask Us If a Dental Bridge Is Right For You

A dental bridge is a long-term investment in your oral and overall health. If you want your appliance to last for 10 years or longer, then regular dental appointments are key. Schedule an appointment at Austin Laser Dentist in Austin, TX, by submitting a request here or by dialing (512) 346-4690 now!

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Five Facts Everyone Should Know About Missing Teeth

A man with missing teeth smiles broadly

Our teeth are incredibly important. Without them, our mouths can’t function properly. In fact, missing even one tooth can have devastating effects on our oral health. So, if you’re missing teeth, then you’ll need to know the facts about tooth loss. Luckily, restorative solutions are well within your reach to replace missing teeth.

If you’re living with tooth loss, then it’s time to talk to Dr. Helen Ragsdale at Austin Laser Dentist. Dr. Ragsdale and her compassionate team can help you replace missing teeth to repair your smile and restore your confidence. Don’t wait for a second longer–schedule your appointment now by calling our Austin, TX, office at (512) 346-4690 or by submitting a request here.

In this post, Dr. Ragsdale discusses five facts that everyone should know about missing teeth. You might be surprised how tooth loss can affect all facets of your life.

1. Periodontal Disease is a Primary Cause of Tooth Loss

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), periodontal disease (also called gum disease) is one of the main culprits of tooth loss. Indeed, many dental professionals believe that periodontal disease is largely responsible for the nearly 120 million people missing at least one tooth in America. 

2. Missing Teeth Worsen Symptoms of Periodontal Disease

Oral bacteria often infect the gum tissue exposed by missing teeth, which can worsen the symptoms of gum disease. The bacteria begin to multiply and spread, which weakens gum tissue, compromises jawbone health, and leads to further tooth loss. 

So, not only does gum disease lead to tooth loss, but tooth loss leads to worsening gum disease. It’s a vicious cycle that is difficult to break. So, if you have gum disease, then seek periodontal treatments immediately. These treatments could make the difference between a healthy smile and missing teeth.

3. Missing Teeth Can Make Employment More Challenging

According to a study conducted by the British Dental Journal, 62% of participants viewed job applicants as less employable if they had a decayed or damaged smile. So, not only does tooth loss affect your oral health, but it complicates your life goals and financial stability, too.

4. Your Teeth Will Shift After Tooth Loss

Our teeth provide structural support for our jawbones, gums, and surrounding teeth. Missing just one tooth can cause our jawbones to deteriorate, our gums to recede, and our teeth to shift in unpredictable patterns. And, this shifting further weakens the structural integrity of otherwise healthy tooth roots, which can result in continued tooth loss.

5. Replacing Missing Teeth Can Improve Your Oral Health

Needless to say, our teeth are integral to the structure and function of our mouths. Without them, a cascade of devastating oral health issues is sure to follow. 

So, if you have missing teeth, then it’s crucial to replace them as quickly as possible. From dentures to dental implants, these restorative solutions can protect and improve your oral health after tooth loss. 

See How We Can Help You Get a Healthy, Brilliant Smile

Don’t wait for tooth loss to catch up to you. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Ragsdale today to see how we can help you protect and restore your smile.
Send our Austin dental office a convenient message here or call our team at (512) 346-4690 to request your appointment now.

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Traditional vs. Implant-Supported Dental Bridge: Which one is right for you?

Whether due to age, decay, or an accident, missing teeth can take a huge toll on your self-esteem. Plus, gaps in your smile make it difficult to eat and can increase your risk for further tooth loss. A dental bridge is the traditional option for replacing missing teeth. However, innovative implant-supported bridges offer unique advantages, including important benefits for your jawbone health. 

dentist shaping a dental bridge

When you come to Austin Laser Dentist for a restorative consultation, Dr. Helen Ragsdale will evaluate your jawbone and overall wellness. Then she will recommend an appropriate treatment. Whether you select a traditional or an implant-supported dental bridge, your restoration will harmonize beautifully with your teeth. 

Contact us today to get started on the path to a restored smile.

What is a traditional dental bridge? 

A traditional bridge can replace one to four missing teeth. On either end of a bridge, two crowns, known as abutment teeth, attach to your natural teeth. One or more replacement teeth, or pontics, fill in the gap in your smile. 

To place a bridge, Dr. Ragsdale will need to reshape your natural teeth, making room for the abutment teeth to sit snugly and securely. 

What is an implant-supported bridge?

An implant-supported bridge can replace two to four missing teeth. (If you are missing only one tooth, you may qualify for an implant-supported crown.) The restoration will sit atop several small titanium posts, which Dr. Ragsdale will surgically insert into your jawbone. 

Advantages of Dental Bridges

Both traditional dental bridges and implant-supported bridges can restore your oral health and function. They can also improve your appearance and keep your other teeth from shifting out of position. 

At the same time, an implant-supported dental bridge will provide additional benefits. These include: 

  • The implants will replace your dental roots, and they will perform the same regenerative function. By promoting the growth of new bone tissue, implants can prevent jawbone recession.
  • If you receive an implant-supported bridge, your dentist will not need to reshape any of your healthy teeth. 
  • Implants typically last longer than a standard dental bridge. On average, a bridge has a lifespan of 10 to 20 years, while implants can last 40 years or more.

Choosing the Right Treatment

The right tooth replacement option for you will depend on a number of factors. Considerations include: 

  • Your jawbone health: For implants to be successful, your jawbone must provide adequate support. If you have a receding jawbone, you may not qualify for implants. However, a bone graft can restore lost tissue and your candidacy for treatment.
  • Your oral health: If you have severe gum disease, you may not qualify for implants. Periodontitis can cause your gums to pull away from the posts and increase the risk of implant failure.
  • Your physical health: The American Academy of Implant Dentistry reports that certain health conditions, such as uncontrolled diabetes, may disqualify you from implants.
  • Your budget: A traditional bridge will cost less than an implant-supported restoration. Nonetheless, you will likely need to replace a traditional bridge sooner and more frequently. Over time, implants could save you a significant amount of money.

Schedule a Consultation Today

Don’t let your missing teeth continue to compromise your appearance and quality of life. Contact Austin Laser Dental to schedule a consultation with Dr. Ragsdale. You can book an appointment online or call us at (512) 346-4690.