Dental Implants And Other Options for Replacing Missing Teeth
One of the most beautiful features of a face, if not the most beautiful, is a bright smile. But when an individual is missing teeth, they may not feel as confident about their smile as they once did. Fortunately, there are options available that one can pursue when it comes to replacing any missing teeth. In this article, we will talk about these options.
The first option when it comes to replacing any lost teeth? Dental implants. Dental implants can be utilized to replace a single tooth, or up to many teeth that have been lost. They are surgically placed within the jaw (upper or lower) where they can serve as excellent anchors for replacement teeth. They are usually made of titanium or any other form of material that the body will accept.
To be a good candidate for dental implants, you will need to be in good overall health. Getting dental implants is surgery, and certain illnesses will prolong recovery time, such as leukemia and diabetes. Tobacco use will also cause recovery time to slow. It is therefore not ideal for those with these health issues to get dental implants. Speaking with your dentist will allow you to figure out whether or not you are a good candidate for the surgery.
The second option for those who wish to replace missing teeth is fixed bridges. This is when the space of one or more missing teeth is filled using a bond or cement. Once a patient submits to a fixed bridge, only a dentist will be able to remove it later in life. A fixed bridge will look and feel like normal teeth, and the procedure is less expensive than implants. However, it may take more work to clean, and the teeth next to the bridge will be affected. You will certainly want to discuss the procedure with your dentist to figure out if it will be a good option for you when it comes to replacing your missing teeth.
The third option for replacing missing teeth is a removable partial denture. As the name suggests, a removable partial denture can be removed for cleaning, and it will be able to attach to a plastic piece that is a color that matches your gums. This plastic base may or may not cover a metal frame. A clasp will allow the partial denture to fit into your mouth and stay there until you are ready to remove it, and while it is in, you will have a full set of teeth that allow you to chew and speak with ease. A removable partial denture is a great option for those who do not want to spend money on implants or a fixed bridge. However, they can easily break or become lost.
In conclusion, if you want to enjoy a beautiful smile after you have lost teeth, you have options that will work for your lifestyle and budget. Speak with your dentist to figure out which option is right for you.