In our last blog, we discussed how a damaged tooth can be restored with a dental crown. However, what do you do when the structure cannot be repaired? Or if you have lost multiple teeth entirely? Dr. Browne and his team in Prairie Village, KS offer prosthetic replacements including dental bridges and dentures. Depending on the severity of tooth loss that has occurred, one of these options may be able to help you have a complete smile again.
Read more: Replace Missing Teeth With A Bridge Or DenturesWho Could Benefit From A Bridge?
If you have lost anywhere from one to four teeth in the same row, a dental bridge may be able to help fill this gap. This is a permanent replacement option that works by utilizing the surrounding teeth to hold the prosthetic in place. This is a great choice for patients who have healthy existing teeth and gums. Crowns may be placed on the adjacent teeth to protect them and securely hold the prosthetic. The bridge will be crafted to fit snuggly in between this area and blend in with your natural smile. A helpful benefit of this option is that you do not have to remove it to clean or care for it. Your dentist can teach you how to properly clean under and around it once it is placed.
When Dentures Are Necessary?
For patients with more severe forms of tooth loss, or tooth loss in different areas of the mouth, dentures may be used instead of a bridge. These can be either partial or full, depending on your needs. As the name suggests, partial dentures replace the missing teeth but allow you to keep the natural healthy ones. Full dentures replace all teeth that are missing on an arch. Traditionally, these will be made to be removable. You will take them out daily to clean, and then they can be secured in place with an adhesive. Your dentures will look lifelike and can help you with chewing and speaking. Having a full smile again can also improve your self-confidence and increase your quality of life.
What About Implant Retained Dentures?
Dentures are a great option for patients with more severe forms of tooth loss. However, removing them daily to clean can be a hassle. If you have healthy gums, you may qualify for implant retained dentures, which do not need to be removed. Several posts will be inserted into the jawbone to help support the prosthetic. This method offers both the benefit of improved chewing and speaking ability, as well as helping the jawbone remain healthy. Before receiving implants, your dentist will need to go over a thorough consultation including an examination and overview of your health history.
Schedule Your Appointment Today
Call the Prairie Village, KS dentist’s office today at 913-901-8585 to learn about your prosthetic tooth replacement options.
