Tooth Replacement Options. Natural-Looking Dentures, Partials, and Implants.
At MyOrthodontist, our goal is to preserve your natural teeth if at all possible.
Sometimes, however, that is not an option. Tooth replacement may be an option if:
- You already have dentures and want them replaced with cosmetic dentures or dental implants
- You have massive decay or advanced periodontal disease
We offer three main options for tooth replacement options:
- Dentures
- Partial Dentures
- Dental Implants
Each option has its advantages and disadvantages. At The Happy Tooth family and cosmetic dentistry, we will give you a free smile assessment to help you make the choice that is right for you, your budget, and your lifestyle.
Dentures – The Most Cost-effective of All Tooth Replacement Options
Dentures are replacements for missing teeth that can be taken out and put back into your mouth. Unlike the false teeth of old, today’s dentures are natural looking and more comfortable. Of the three tooth-replacement options, full dentures are the most cost effective.
With full dentures, a flesh-colored acrylic base fits over your gums. The base of the upper denture covers the roof of your mouth, while that of the lower denture is shaped like a horseshoe to accommodate your tongue. Dentures are custom-made in our laboratory from impressions we take of your mouth, which is why they fit so nicely.
There are two types of full dentures:
- Conventional full denture: A conventional full denture is placed in your mouth after any remaining teeth are removed and the tissues have healed. As a result healing may take several months, during which time you are without teeth.
- Immediate full denture: An immediate full denture is inserted immediately after the remaining teeth are removed. While immediate dentures offer the benefit of never having to be without your teeth, you will need to come back in to the office several months after they have been inserted in order to have them refitted, as the bone supporting the teeth reshapes as it heals.
Partial dentures are a removable option for people who are missing only some of their teeth. A removable partial denture fills the gap between two healthy teeth. It consists of replacement teeth attached to a gum-colored plastic base. Partial dentures are connected by a metal framework that helps keep them in place, offering a removable alternative to bridges.
Dental implants are a safe, effective and permanent way to replace teeth that are missing or badly damaged. Rather than resting on the gum line like removable dentures, or using adjacent teeth as anchors like fixed bridges, dental implants are long-term tooth replacements that are surgically placed in the jawbone.
Dental Implants vs. Conventional Dentures
Dental implants are quickly becoming a popular alternative to traditional dentures. With today’s modern dental implant techniques, our cosmetic dentists can provide you with a beautiful, natural smile that will last a lifetime.
Implants eliminate the day-to-day frustrations and discomfort of ill-fitting dentures, such as sore gums, awkward appearance, difficulty eating and impaired speech. Compared to conventional dentures, dental implants are:
- More Comfortable: While dentures are prone to slip around in your mouth, causing sore gums and general discomfort, dental implants are firmly held in place by titanium posts, making for a more comfortable fit. You’ll find eating is easier and talking is more comfortable with dental implants.
- Permanent: Dental implants offer a permanent alternative to dentures. They are never removed and often never need to be replaced.
- More Natural: Dental implants provide a whiter, brighter, and more natural smile than conventional dentures.
For many people, missing teeth means a missing smile. At The Happy Tooth, we want to see you smile. Therefore, our team of experienced dental professionals can help you find the best tooth replacement option – dentures, partials or dental implants – to restore your smile.
Call The Happy Tooth today to request a smile evaluation. We’ll help you find the tooth replacement option that is right for you, your budget, and your lifestyle. Contact a conveniently located MyOrthodontist office near you.
