You’re not alone if you’re struggling to accept the sudden changes to your smile caused by a missing tooth. Not only might you feel self-conscious about the gap in your grin, but you might also have a harder time clearly enunciating words or chewing food sufficiently to be swallowed and digested.
Your dentist can rebuild your smile with lifelike replacements, such as dentures, bridges, or dental implants, but you might feel tempted to try “do-it-yourself” products if you’re on a tight budget. Continue reading to learn more about why experts recommend restoring your smile with your provider instead!
How Do DIY Replacement Teeth Work?
If you’re concerned about your financial situation and need to replace a missing tooth, you might already have searched for more affordable solutions than the ones your dentist is offering. It’s not usually too difficult to find “do-it-yourself” solutions online or at your local pharmacy that claim to help.
For instance, you might find moldable wax or paste that can be shaped and smoothed in place before it solidifies. You might also come across melted polymer options, some containing colors for customization, that can be warmed and shaped, then harden in place.
Are DIY Replacement Teeth Safe?
You might be so excited to have found a cheaper treatment option and save money that you don’t stop and consider the risks to your smile. While over-the-counter products tend to have a lower price point, they also can be problematic.
For example, unless you have completed specialized training, you don’t have the same level of expertise or access to the same dental technology as a professional. That means that even if you have materials and dyes, you might not successfully produce a lifelike replacement tooth. It could look awkward and unnatural and detract from your confidence.
Not only that, but commercial-grade DIY restorations aren’t intended to be permanent and are likely to become damaged and dislodged if you try eating with them. They might also include materials containing harmful plastics that aren’t FDA-approved, which might be toxic if ingested.
How Can I Afford Dental Services?
If a lack of funding is the main motivation behind pursuing “do-it-yourself” replacement teeth, you might ask your dentist whether they offer any options to help make professional services more affordable. For instance, many providers accept dental insurance, which might cover 50% to 80% of the costs of treatments needed to protect, preserve, or rebuild your smile.
But don’t lose hope if you’re uninsured. Many providers understand that not all patients have coverage and offer other ways to help cover costs, such as low- to no-interest flexible payment plans or an in-house membership that includes discounts on various procedures.
Thankfully, many dentists offer ways to help make professional services more affordable, so there’s no need to seek at-home solutions for rebuilding your smile!
About the Practice
Patients at Soleil Dental benefit from two providers who are passionate about helping families in Dallas build and maintain beautiful, healthy teeth and gums. Dr. Vazquez and Dr. Aldana collaborate to offer a complete menu of services, including dental restorations, using advanced technology to deliver comfortable, reliable results meant to last. If you’ve lost one or more teeth and require treatment, you can request an appointment on the website or call the office at (214) 304-2112.