Dental Treatments -- Dentures

Dentures are prosthetic devices that fit snugly against the gums and look and function as natural teeth. They’re also referred to as false teeth.

The extent of tooth loss and your preference will help determine what kind of dentures are best for you. The most common types of dentures include:

  • Complete dentures replace all of your teeth and must be removed daily for cleaning.
  • Removable partial dentures replace some but not all of your teeth.
  • Fixed partial dentures are also known as implant-supported bridges.
  • Implant-retained dentures are affixed to implants but must be removed daily for cleaning (also called snap-in dentures).
  • Another type of denture is called a flipper. These are temporary partial dentures replacing one or two teeth. They are made of less durable materials than regular partial dentures since they are meant to be used for a short time.

Dental Bridge

When one or more teeth are missing, a dental bridge is a compromise between dentures and implants. As the name implies, a dental bridge is meant to bridge a gap left by missing teeth. A bridge is usually anchored to natural teeth at both ends of the gap and may be made of one or more false teeth called pontics. In some cases, a bridge may be attached to an implant for greater security and stability. A bridge is often made of porcelain to look like natural teeth and must be brushed and flossed regularly. Special flossing aids called threaders may be necessary to get floss between the bridge and the gum line.

Here’s the typical process for getting a bridge:

  • At the first appointment, the anchor teeth on either side of the bridge are filed into shape and a mold is made of your mouth. A temporary bridge may be made to fill in the gap while a permanent one is made within a couple of days.
  • At the second appointment, the permanent bridge is fitted into place. Any necessary minor adjustments are made so that the bridge looks natural and works with your natural bite. The bridge is then cemented into place.
  • A well-made bridge can last for decades, but 5 to 15 years is a reasonable expectation.

Dental Treatments -- Dental Crowns

DENTAL CROWNS

Overview

Dental prosthesis devices replace or repair missing or damaged teeth. They can do much more than improve your smile. A missing tooth can affect your ability to chew and raise your risk of gum disease. A missing tooth can also affect the bone health of the jaw and put other teeth at risk.

There are several types of fixed dental appliances, such as crowns and implants, and removable devices, including full or partial dentures, which can be taken out as needed.

What are the benefits of a dental prosthesis device?

A dental prosthetic is useful in providing one or more of the following benefits:

  • Improving the appearance of your teeth, boosting confidence and self-esteem
  • Improving your ability to chew, allowing you to consume a healthy diet
  • Supporting the health and strength of the jawbone, supporting the strength of other teeth
  • Protecting against gum disease that can lead to serious health problems

When should I see a dentist?

See a dentist soon if you have just lost a tooth or have had a missing tooth for some time. A missing tooth can contribute to surrounding bone loss and raise the risk of gum disease. Both can affect your overall oral health. The longer you wait, the more extensive and irreversible the damage can be.

Other symptoms that should prompt a conversation with a dentist about prosthetic solutions include:

  • A cracked, chipped or worn tooth
  • Bleeding or sore gums
  • Tooth sensitivity or pain
  • Anything about the color or appearance of your teeth that bothers you
  • A dental crown is a new covering for a damaged tooth.

A crown may be made of metal or porcelain. Crowns tend to be good long-term solutions for teeth that have been chipped, cracked, or worn down. Getting a crown often requires two appointments.

In a typical process for a dental crown, a dentist will:

  • Get a soft mold of your teeth.
  • Fill any cavities in the damaged tooth (if necessary).
  • Trim the tooth to prepare it for receiving a crown. Place a temporary crown on the tooth while a permanent crown is made in a lab.
  • After a few weeks, place a permanent crown that is cemented in place.
  • Dental practices that can make crowns on-site may offer same-day crowns.
  • Crowns are considered a relatively permanent solution. Once a crown is in place, it should last 5 to 15 years or even longer if maintained properly. You should brush and floss a tooth with a crown as you would any other tooth.
  • A crown can crack or chip over time, or the cement holding it in place can soften. This can allow bacteriato move in and infect the tooth.

Dental Treatments | Dental Implants

WHAT IS AN IMPLANT?

Overview

A dental implant is a titanium screw that can mimic the root of a tooth. Just like a natural root, it is placed into the jawbone. A person may need an implant if they have lost one or more teeth.

CAN EVERYONE HAVE IMPLANTS ?

Overview

Dental implants are accepted by the human body and they fuse with the jawbone so there is a secure foundation for a replacement. However, dental implants are not suitable for everyone. The implanting devices must bond with the jawbone, so a person’ s bones must be healthy before they can undergo implant surgery.

I Don ‘t Have Enough Bone Level. Can I still have an implant?

There are a variety of techniques to achieve this. Bone grafting and sinus lifting are surgical procedures often used to help prepare the gum and the jaw for dental implants. These procedures can help improve a person’ s chances of having a successful dental implant procedure.

Will I Feel Pain During the Procedure ?

Dental implants aren’ t painful and there’ s very little discomfort throughout the process. With the help of anesthetic, the dentist can make the surgery pain – free. You will also receive comprehensive aftercare instructions to minimize your pain and reduce the risk of infections.

Are Implants Durable ?

Dental implants are as durable as original teeth and can last a lifetime. Implants are attached to your jaw, so they will never slip or rub, allowing you to eat whatever you want.

How Should I Take Care of My Implants ?

Caring for teeth restored with dental implants is just like caring for your natural teeth : brush, floss and maintain regular dental cleanings and checkups.