Dentures, Dental Bridges and implants are used to replace missing teeth. Teeth may be lost for a variety of reasons. Whether due to normal aging, injury or other issues, most people will have to consider dentures and implants at some point in their lives.
DENTAL BRIDGES
Before full dentures are needed, there are other options when only one, or a few teeth are missing. Partial dentures can be used when there are teeth remaining in the upper and lower jaw. These dentures can be permanent or removable.
Partial dentures are also known as dental bridges because they bridge the gap of missing teeth. Crowns are placed on each side of the gap and the bridge is attached to these crowns by internal attachments. The crowns are supported by natural teeth or implants.
If missing teeth are not treated with dental bridges, the teeth on either side of the gap will begin stray from their normal position. Dental bridges keep the surrounding teeth from changing position. Also keep in mind that if missing teeth are not replaced with dental bridges, the remaining teeth will experience greater stress due to increased usage.
There are different types of dental bridges but they all offer similar benefits. In addition to normalizing the distribution of forces and maintaining the proper position of remaining teeth, dental bridges restore your smile and your ability to chew and speak.
Both dentures and dental bridges are very effective treatments for missing teeth. They are made with a gum-coloured plastic base that is designed to look completely natural. Please call us for consultation if you have any questions regarding dental bridges. 1-877-283-0497
DENTURES
Dentures may be full or partial. Full or complete dentures are used when all of the teeth are missing. These dentures can be either conventional or immediate. After teeth are removed the patient has the option to go home with what are called immediate dentures. These dentures are a temporary set of teeth that are used until a conventional set is made, specifically for the patient.
Before full dentures are needed however, there are other options when only one, or a few teeth are missing. Partial dentures can be used when there are teeth remaining in the upper and lower jaw. These dentures are also removable. Partial dentures are also known as dental bridges because the bridge the gap of missing teeth. Crowns are placed on each side of the gap and the bridge is attached to these crowns by internal attachments.
Both full and partial dentures are very effective treatments for missing teeth. They are made with a gum-coloured plastic base that is designed to look completely natural. If missing teeth are not treated with partial dentures, the teeth on either side of the gap will begin to stray from their normal position. Partial dentures keep the surrounding teeth from changing position. Also keep in mind that if missing teeth are not replaced with dentures, the remaining teeth will experience greater stress due to increased usage.
The percentage of people who opt for dentures continues to rise as the population ages. Modern technology gives them a natural looking appearance and generally, people are unaware if the person they are talking to is wearing dentures or not.
Conventional dentures take a few weeks to make. Dentures are made by taking a series of impressions and measurements of the jaw. Models will be made and tested by the patient. Adjustments are made until the patient is happy with the fit, shape and colour. Finally a permanent denture is cast.
DENTAL IMPLANTS
A more modern alternative to treating missing teeth is dental implants. Dental implants offer the closest thing to the original tooth. Unlike dentures they are permanent structures and are not removed for cleaning or soaking. They are preferred by many people because of this.
These dental implants are very stable and also comfortable. For those that are self-conscious about wearing dentures or concerned about the sunken look when dentures are removed, implants offer a great solution.
One or several teeth can be replaced with implants. Dental implants can also be used to anchor partial dentures. Since they are anchored to the bone, they predominantly offer the strongest choice available.
Three units make up the completed tooth. The implant is anchored to the jaw and a post is attached to the anchor. The anchor is a screw-like structure and is attached to the jaw and gum tissue. To this combination, a crown is attached, thus completing the procedure.
Several months are usually required to complete the process. After the dentist surgically places the implant in the jaw, three to six months are required for the implants to fuse to the bone.
When the gum is healed and the dental implant is fused the final step can be completed. A crown of the proper size, shape, and colour is prepared and attached to the post and implant. The final result offers the patient a great replacement of the original tooth, in form and in function.
Discover if you have healthy bone and gum tissue for dentures, dental implants or bridges with a consultation – to discuss your options call us at: 1-877-283-0497