Tooth replacement
Tooth loss can be a result of many different factors, such as tooth decay, gum disease, injury, or aging. Fortunately, there are several options for tooth replacement that can restore your smile and your ability to eat and speak comfortably.
Removable dentures
Removable dentures, also known as false teeth, are a type of tooth replacement option that can replace multiple missing teeth. They are designed to look and function like natural teeth, allowing individuals who have lost their teeth to regain their ability to eat, speak, and smile with confidence.
Removable dentures consist of a base made of pink-colored acrylic or a metal alloy framework, that supports a set of artificial teeth. The base is custom-made to fit the shape of your mouth, and the artificial teeth are carefully crafted to look as natural as possible. The dentures are held in place by suction, adhesive, or clasps that attach to your remaining natural teeth.
Wearing removable dentures can greatly improve your quality of life if you have several missing teeth. They allow you to chew food more easily and speak clearly, while also restoring your facial appearance by filling in the gaps left by missing teeth. Dentures can be a more affordable option compared to dental implants or bridges.
However, it’s important to note that getting used to dentures may take some time. Initially, they may feel a bit uncomfortable or bulky in your mouth, and speaking or eating certain foods may require some practice. It’s crucial to follow your dentist’s instructions for cleaning and caring for your dentures to maintain their hygiene and prolong their lifespan.
Overall, removable dentures offer an affordable, non-invasive and reversible solution for replacing missing teeth, allowing you to regain your smile and confidence.
Bridges
Dental bridges are a tooth replacement option that can effectively fill the gap created by one or more missing teeth. They consist of artificial teeth, known as pontics, which are securely anchored to the adjacent natural teeth or dental implants. Dental bridges not only restore the appearance of a complete smile but also provide functional benefits by restoring the ability to bite and chew properly.
The process of getting a dental bridge typically involves multiple visits to the dentist. During the initial appointment, the adjacent teeth are prepared by removing a small amount of enamel to create space for the bridge. Then, impressions or 3D scans of the teeth are taken, which serve as a guide for creating a customized bridge that fits your mouth perfectly. In the meantime, a temporary bridge may be placed to protect the prepared teeth.
Once the permanent bridge is ready, it is carefully fitted and adjusted by the dentist to ensure a comfortable and natural fit. The bridge is then bonded or cemented into place, securing the artificial teeth in position. With proper care and regular dental check-ups, dental bridges can last for many years.
Dental bridges offer several advantages over the other option of implants and dentures:
- non-surgical procedure
- relatively quick procedure. Generally takes 2 appointments about 2 weeks apart.
- permanently fixed in the mouth.
The main disadvantages are:
- it relies on the health of the supporting teeth.
- it often requires preparation of the adjacent teeth
- the state of the existing adjacent teeth will play a large factor in whether a bridge is a suitable option for you.
It’s important to maintain good oral hygiene to ensure the longevity of your dental bridge. Regular brushing, flossing, and dental cleanings are crucial to keep the supporting teeth and gums healthy.
Consulting with a dental professional will help determine if a dental bridge is the right solution for you, considering factors such as the number and location of missing teeth, the condition of adjacent teeth, and your overall dental health goals.
Implants
Dental implants are an effective tooth replacement option that provide a long-lasting and natural-looking solution for missing teeth. They are essentially artificial tooth roots (made of titanium) that are placed into the jawbone, providing a stable foundation for a replacement tooth or teeth.
The process of getting a dental implant typically involves several appointments over a period of 2-4 months. During the initial appointment, the dentist will assess the patient’s suitability for dental implants and plan the treatment. In some cases, additional procedures such as bone grafting may be necessary to prepare the jawbone for implant placement.
The dental implant is placed surgically into the jawbone under local anesthesia or sedation. Over the next few months, the implant integrates with the surrounding bone tissue, a process known as osseointegration. Once the implant has fused with the jawbone, a custom-made crown or bridge is attached to the implant, restoring the appearance and function of the missing tooth or teeth.
One of the key advantages of dental implants is that they do not require or rely upon other teeth (like bridges).
It’s important to maintain good oral hygiene and visit the dentist regularly to ensure the longevity of the dental implant. Regular brushing, flossing, and dental cleanings are crucial to keep the implant and surrounding gums healthy. Consulting with a dental professional can help determine if dental implants are the right solution for an individual’s specific dental needs, considering factors such as the number and location of missing teeth, the condition of the jawbone, and overall dental health goals.