3 Dental Applications That Can Restore Missing Teeth
If you have lost a tooth due to trauma, gum disease or decay, there are multiple tooth replacement options available. Your dentist will consider several factors, such as your overall health, the density of your jawbone and the number of teeth that need to be replaced, before prescribing options to replace your lost teeth. Here are a few dental applications that can be used to restore missing teeth:
Dental Bridges
Dental bridges are prosthetic devices that are used to replace one or more teeth. A standard bridge is comprised of false teeth in the middle of the bridge bordered by a dental crown on each end of the bridge.
The dental bridge is not a removable appliance. It is held in place by the dental crowns which are affixed to dental implants or natural teeth.
If natural teeth are used to support the dental bridge, some debridement of the natural tooth material is needed before the crowns can be placed.
Dentures
Several types of dentures can be used to replace multiple missing teeth.
Partial Dentures
Partial dentures, which are sometimes referred to as removable bridges, are used to replace teeth when some natural teeth still remain in the palate. The dentures include false teeth that are attached to metal framing, which helps hold the dentures in place.
Full Dentures
Full dentures are usually prescribed when no natural teeth remain in the palate. The dentures are held in place by dental adhesive and the tongue.
Full dentures are still removable and must cleaned daily using a prescribed dental solution.
Dental Implants
Dental implants are the most natural tooth replacement options. Used to replace a single tooth, a dental implant has components that replace each part of the missing tooth.
The root of the natural tooth is replaced by a titanium screw that is inserted into the jawbone and fuses with the bone over time through a process called osseointegration. The crown of the missing tooth is replaced by a dental crown that is attached to the implant screw using an abutment.
Since the implant is inserted into the jawbone, bone stimulation occurs as it would with a natural tooth.
Multiple dental options are available for tooth replacement. However, your dentist will review your specific needs and prescribe an option that is suitable for you. If you have missing teeth, schedule an appointment with a dentist, like the ones at Gentle Dental Family Care, in your area. He or she can assess the state of your mouth and offer a professional recommendation.
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