Your options if you have many missing or damaged teeth
Not following an adequate dental care routine for many years may result in patients losing most of their teeth and leaving them with a feeling of hopelessness. Sometimes, they seek a dentist who can remove the remaining teeth as they are often broken and have deep cavities. Some find it true that in some cases the removal of the remaining teeth and the replacement of full dentures is the only option.
But more often than not there are other options available.
If missing one or more teeth, this probably affects the patient’s smile aesthetically and may also limit the ability to conduct needed functions such as chewing and/ or speaking. Prosthodontics can help maintain the shape of your face, as well as reduce the stress in the bite by replacing missing teeth. Seeking a consultation with a local dentist to regain these daily functions is critical in maintaining overall health and happiness.
Some or all of the remaining teeth could be repaired and used in conjunction with a partial denture. While a full denture replaces all of the teeth on the upper or lower jaw, a partial denture replaces some of the teeth. Otherwise referenced as bridge, partial, or flipper; these can be fixed or removable depending on the condition of the palate and bone structure of the mouth.
For example, a bridge replaces missing teeth with artificial teeth, by literally bridge the gap where one or more teeth may have been previously. An implant bridge is a fixed bridge, which attaches artificial teeth directly to the jaw or under the gum tissue by the placement of one or more dental implants.
If only a few weak teeth remain on the upper jaw, it might be preferable to have them extracted and a full upper denture made. Full upper dentures can be more secure than lower ones as the upper denture gets added stability from the palate and is not easily dislodged by the tongue.
If only a few teeth remain on the lower jaw, however, the dentist will usually aim to save them and use a partial denture if necessary. Many times if a full upper and lower denture is the prescribed treatment a doctor will suggest securing them with dental implants; otherwise referenced as overdentures or snap in dentures.
The process of implant supported dentures are a bit of a journey but well worth the time. The completed denture snaps into the mouth after the remaining teeth are removed, tissues have healed and implants have been activated above the gum line which may take several months.
Commonly, an immediate complete traditional denture is inserted as soon as the remaining teeth are removed and implant placed within the bone and below the gum line to heal. With these immediate dentures, the denture wearer does not have to be without teeth during the healing period. In order to do so the dentist will take measurements and make models of the patient’s jaw during a preliminary visit.
Ideally, all teeth that can be saved should be saved but this is not always possible. A patient should obtain a consultation to acquire knowledge regarding their specific options in order to understand the best treatment for overall well being and peace of mind when making their final decision.
Contact Ocala Dental Care for your complimentary consultation today.