Missing Teeth
When you have missing teeth the spaces can be restored with one of the following three things
- Implants
- Bridges
- Dentures
A. Single Missing Tooth
1. Implants
When both the tooth and root are damaged, the best permanent replacement is a dental implant in conjunction with a crown. This solution both looks and functions just like a natural tooth.
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2. Tooth-supported bridge
A traditional bridge involves grinding down adjacent teeth to support the bridge. It is a stable solution with good aesthetics and function that is fairly easy to install. However, this alternative has two main disadvantages: continuous bone resorbtion in the edentulous area, and sacrificing healthy teeth on behalf of the bridge.
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3. Removable partial denture
This is not a permanent alternative to a lost tooth. It is unstable and loosely attached, which affects both function and comfort. A removable partial denture is made of plastic - a material that can't create the same aesthetic result as a ceramic crown. The benefits are few but do exist: adjacent teeth aren't affected. It is easily and quickly installed and relatively cheap.
B. Multiple Missing Teeth
1. Bridge on implants
In this case, when replacing three teeth in the far back of the mouth, a fixed bridge anchored to dental implants is the only fixed alternative.
Having dental implants replacing your lost back teeth will give you new, unparalleled strength and stability that allows you to eat what you want. It will also preserve your jawbone and facial appearance.
2. Removable partial denture
This alternative is often perceived as uncomfortable and a bit complicated to use. Function can't be compared to that of a bridge. This denture is made of plastic and metal, which affects its look. It is quite expensive to fabricate due to its many parts. However, the installation process is simple, and natural teeth are spared
C. All Teeth Missing
1. Implants
When all teeth are missing or in such condition that they need to be replaced, a fixed bridge anchored to dental implants is the best permanent solution
Before dental implants, there were no fixed solution available for people who lost all their teeth. Today, it is possible to replace a full jaw with dental implants and a fixed bridge that results in a permanent, stable and high esthetic solution.
2. Removable, implant anchored overdenture
An alternative to a fixed bridge is a removable overdenture, which is anchored on implants.
3. Removable full denture
A denture that is loosely placed on top of the gum to cover the lost teeth. This alternative has no real advantages - except for its low price and easy installation. The disadvantages are many: discomfort in eating, poor esthetics, affected speech, and sore gums from denture movement. Moreover, a full denture placed in the upper jaw severely reduces the sense of taste.
If you would like more information on this subject, please contact Smile Concepts directly by clicking here or ringing 02 9267 7777
