How Do We Treat Missing Teeth?
Gaps in the teeth not only appear unsightly but also lead to bone loss through a process known as resorption. Patients who have had many teeth extracted are more likely to experience resorption of the bone and subsequent shrinking of the gum tissue. This can result in an unpleasant concavity in the mouth. Thankfully, missing teeth can be replaced with partial or full dentures, dental bridges, single dental implant-supported crowns, and All on 4 dental implants. With many choices available, it’s important to understand the risks and benefits of each option.
Dentures
Dentures, also known as false teeth, are plates fixed with artificial teeth, worn by patients who have had all or some of their teeth removed. Partial dentures are removable but not as stable as modern-day tooth replacement options. Full dentures sit on the top and bottom jaw, replacing all your missing teeth and improving your appearance. They can help you chew your food but are known to shift in the mouth, cause gum soreness, and make clicking sounds when you talk or cough. However, no surgery is required for fitting, and you can get your dentures after a few sittings with the dentist.
Dentures are manufactured in a laboratory after impressions of your jaw and bite are recorded at the dental clinic. Care for them by brushing them thoroughly and keeping them in water when not in use.
Dental Bridges
Dental bridges are ideal for filling gaps within the teeth. They are placed over healthy teeth located on either side of the gap. The bridge consists of crowns and pontics. Pontics are the artificial teeth that fill the gap, while crowns go over the healthy supporting teeth. Pontics can be made from different materials, with porcelain being the most durable and aesthetically appealing choice. Traditional bridges help restore your smile and are less expensive than dental implants, but they require healthy teeth to be recontoured to support the crowns.
Gaps in the front teeth are usually replaced with resin-bonded dental bridges. These bridges have metallic wings on either side and are bonded to the healthy teeth adjacent to the gap. This means patients don’t need to recontour adjacent teeth or get a partial denture. However, bridges are temporary and don’t provide enough pressure to prevent bone loss, and they can’t function as well as dental implants.
Dental Implants
Dental implants are titanium screws embedded into the jawbone in the gaps between the teeth. These screws are later fitted with artificial teeth to help patients chew properly. Once fitted, they don’t shift in the mouth and apply enough pressure to prevent further bone deterioration, maintaining the look and feel of natural teeth.
Dental implants require surgical insertion. The process can take almost 6 months to a year or more, depending on the number of implants needed. Dental implants are also more expensive than other tooth replacement options.
For patients who have lost all their teeth, All on 4 dental implants might be the right choice. These implants provide a whole set of teeth with the surgical insertion of only four titanium screws.
Dental Art St Kilda are experts in tooth replacement procedures. Find out what we can do for you by enquiring online or calling us at (03) 9527 2273 to learn more.
