Should You Get Dentures?
In our last blog, we talked about how dental bridges can help replace several missing teeth in a row. This is a great option if you have healthy dental structures that can support the prosthetic. However, if you have more severe tooth loss, this may not be a viable option. Instead, dentures may be preferred. Your Cleveland, TX, dental team is here today to discuss how this option compares.
The Difference Between Bridges And Dentures
A dental bridge is a prosthetic used to replace a few teeth within the same space. It is held in place by your adjacent dental structures. Dentures, however, are used to replace several missing teeth throughout your smile. This is a helpful solution for patients who have more severe tooth loss. They can be made to be full or partial depending on your needs. A full set can replace an entire arch, and a partial set will fill the gaps in your smile but allow your natural pearly whites to remain in place. This prosthetic can help improve your speech, ability to chew, and allow you to have a full smile again.
How To Get Your Dentures
Dentures are custom created to fit your oral cavity. After having a consultation to assess if this is the right option for you, an impression will be made of your smile. Then, they will be crafted out of acrylic resin to achieve a natural-looking appearance. Your dentist may decide to remove some of your existing teeth if they are unhealthy or cannot be restored. Once the prosthetic is ready, it will be checked for proper fit. Your dentist can help make the proper adjustments needed so that your false teeth can fit comfortably.
Some patients may qualify for implant-retained dentures. With the process, posts will be inserted below your gumline to create a sturdy support for your prosthetic. These steps can take several months but have the added benefit of replacing the root of your missing tooth, which can keep your jawbone stable.
Taking Care Of Your New Smile
When you have this replacement, you must continue to care for your smile. If you have removable ones, you will take these out every day to clean and brush your teeth. Even if you are missing your teeth, you must keep your gums clean. For patients with implant-retained prosthetics, you will not remove them. Instead, your dentist will give you instructions on how to brush and floss with these. You should also continue to see your dentist to ensure that you are in good oral health. These checkups help monitor gum disease, oral cancer, and many other problems.
Talk To Our Team Today
To learn more about your tooth replacement options, call Cleveland Family Dentistry in Cleveland, TX, today at 281.592.1234.