When there comes a time where you need to replace some or all missing teeth, you'll need to weigh out the different restorative dentistry options. In the following article, your local dentist in Denver, CO, Dr. O'Grady, dental implant solutions for missing teeth, whether you are missing some or all teeth.
A dental bridge assisted by dental implants is an excellent choice if you have several missing teeth in a row. Since the crowns are attached to one another, implant-assisted bridges do not need an implant on each missing tooth. Implant-supported bridges include a secure base. The bridge would be custom-made to match the appearance and form of the rest of the teeth in the mouth.
Even if all of the missing teeth are in a row, some patients tend to have individual implants and crowns for each missing tooth. This is the most natural option for maintaining healthy teeth and allowing patients to floss, says Dr. O'Grady.
In certain situations, such as when the adjacent teeth are already weakened. A conventional dental bridge that connects an artificial tooth to adjacent teeth, such as the example above, could be a good choice.
To hold partial dentures in place, clasps are applied to healthy, adjacent teeth. The clasps exert pressure on the underlying gums and natural teeth that they hook onto, weakening the jawbone and loosening adjacent teeth. Our friend, Dr. Hoang, a dentist in Bethlehem, GA, says this can result in tooth loss. Additionally, partial dentures lack a tooth root system, which jeopardizes the jaw bone's integrity and may result in rapid bone degradation. They are the cheapest alternative, but they have a high cost to your oral health. Make sure to weigh out your options with your dentist before starting treatment.
Those that need a complete smile replacement have many options to choose from. Ask your Denver dentist about restorative dentistry options to determine which choice is best for you.
Fresh teeth that are implant-supported and set in place
An implant-supported, permanent, full-arch collection of teeth is the best choice for removing all of your teeth. Implant-supported teeth look, work, and sound just like natural teeth and have all of the advantages of dental implants, including improved chewing capacity, comfort, and a long-term solution.
Artificial gum lines may also be used to mask any depressions or anomalies in your natural gum line caused by bone loss. The crowns are permanently attached to the implants and can only be removed by a surgeon.
A collection of implants may be used to securely secure and stabilize a denture. Special attachments are placed on top of the implants and on the underside of the denture to allow the denture to snap into place easily. This also makes it possible to easily remove the denture for cleaning. There is no need for adhesives because the denture is securely kept in place by implants, and patients experience near to maximum chewing capacity. Patients seeking a minimally invasive dental implant can opt for hybrid dental implants, which allow multiple teeth to be placed on a single implant.
Dentures are the most popular and least expensive choice for replacing a complete set of teeth, but they have some drawbacks. As you may know, teeth move over time. Therefore, traditional dentures can become loose over time. They appear to move around while talking or chewing because they are not well affixed to the jaw. They also lack a natural tooth root, which causes bone loss in the jaw. Dr. O'Grady says this can alter your overall facial appearance as well. Consult with your dentist before starting treatment.
As you can see, there are many dental implant solutions for missing teeth. If you're missing some or all teeth, contact OG Dental for a consultation. When you visit our dental office in Denver, CO, we will assess your smile and recommend the best solution for you. Give us a call today!
