Teeth are essential, and having a healthy, complete set will enable you to smile, enhance your confidence and improve your health. However, a missing tooth can change your appearance and make everyday tasks such as chewing and speaking difficult. One can lose teeth due to dental issues such as tooth decay, periodontitis, injury, or a genetic condition. Over time, failing to replace a missing tooth can lead to issues such as teeth alignment and increase the risk of dental issues. Fortunately, several dental restoration procedures, such as dentures, can be used to replace missing teeth. According to our dentist in Westminster, CO, some of these options include:
Partial & Full Dentures
Dentures are used to replace teeth and the surrounding tissue. There are two types of dentures available which include full and partial dentures. The former is recommended for patients who have lost all their teeth.
Partial dentures are viable for patients with some natural teeth remaining.
- Complete Dentures. Full dentures can be classified as conventional or immediate. Immediate dentures are made after your teeth have been extracted and the gum tissue begins to heal. Conventional dentures are placed after eight to twelve weeks after the teeth have been extracted. Immediate dentures are pre-made and can be worn during healing. However, due to the shrinking of gums and bones after healing, immediate dentures must be adjusted and considered a temporary solution.
- Partial Dentures. Partial dentures near you consist of prosthetic teeth and a pink or gum-colored plastic base usually attached to a metal framework that will anchor the denture in place. These dentures are recommended when one has natural teeth in their lower or upper jaw. Partial dentures prevent the existing teeth from shifting toward the tooth gap. The dentures are removable and have internal attachments instead of clasps attached to adjacent crowns.
Alternative Treatments To Dentures
Missing teeth should not affect the quality of your life. Your dentist will tell you about the available dental replacement options and recommend the best suit. Here are alternatives to dentures.
Dental Implants
Dental implants are considered an option when you have a single missing or multiple in different parts of your teeth. The implant procedure involves surgery to mount a titanium post or frame onto your jaw bone which will act as a tooth root supporting the artificial crown. Dental implants provide a more permanent replacement solution that will last for decades. They will function well when chewing, talking, or smiling and aren’t easily distinguished from your natural teeth. And because of this, dental implants will require sufficient bone-level stability. However, bone grafting can be done for those with a deteriorating jawbone.
Fixed Bridge
Fixed dental bridges are also an effective tooth replacement option if you are not a candidate for dentures. Essentially, fixed bridges are placed on tooth gaps caused by missing teeth. Dental bridges are artificial teeth held in place by a crown or dental implants on both sides. You will require multiple dental visits when receiving a fixed dental bridge. Once the bridge is placed, it will look, feel and function like your natural teeth. A fixed dental bridge doesn’t have to be removed for cleaning.
After Care Tips For Your Replacement Option
After receiving your new tooth, here are tips on how
- Follow a proper oral routine by brushing, rinsing, and flossing at least twice daily. Use a soft toothbrush to clean them. Brush your tongue and gums to remove plaque and food particles and to prevent bad breath. If you have dentures, remove and rinse them after eating.
- Schedule regular dental checkups. Your mouth is susceptible to oral issues such as decay or gum disease. These checkups allow your dentist to examine your restorations for damage or developing dental issues. It’s also where they can advise you on how to take care of your restorations to ensure durability.
It’s okay if you don’t want to deal with dentures if you are missing multiple teeth. At Dental Associates of Westminster,there are other ways that you can get to restore your smile. Whether you choose dental implants or bridges, each tooth replacement option has cons and pros. Contact our dentist at 80030 to help guide you toward a customized solution.