Missing teeth can significantly affect your oral health. They could also impact your self-esteem and overall quality of life. Various treatment options exist to address missing teeth. Each option comes with its own set of benefits and drawbacks. Consulting with Dr. Uttma Dham is crucial to determine the best choice for your specific needs. Call her office at (954) 251-0640 to learn more about the following treatment options.
How Dentists Restore Missing Teeth
Dental Implants
Dental implants are a popular option for replacing missing teeth. They provide a permanent solution that often mimics the look and feel of natural teeth. The process involves inserting a titanium post into the jawbone. This post acts as a root for the artificial tooth. Once the post is secure, a crown is placed on top.
Dental implants offer several advantages. They often look and feel like natural teeth. They also help preserve the jawbone to prevent bone loss over time. The stability they provide could improve your ability to chew and speak. However, dental implants can be expensive. The procedure requires surgery, which can be daunting for some patients. It also takes several months to complete, as the post needs time to integrate with the jawbone. At Westside Dental Center, Dr. Dham works with skilled oral surgeons to ensure your dental implant process is successful and as stress-free as possible.
Dental Bridges
Dental bridges are another viable option for replacing missing teeth. They work by filling the gap left by missing teeth. A traditional bridge consists of two crowns and false teeth in between. The crowns anchor the bridge to the adjacent teeth, providing stability. Dr. Dhama also offers implant-supported bridges for patients with multiple missing teeth.
Traditional bridges are typically less invasive than implants as they do not require surgery. The procedure can be completed in a few visits to Westside Dental Center. Dental bridges are also generally more affordable than implants. However, they may not last as long. They typically need to be replaced every 5 to 15 years.
Partial Dentures
Partial dentures are removable appliances designed to replace one or more missing teeth. They consist of a metal or plastic framework that supports the false teeth. Clasps attach the denture to the remaining natural teeth.
Partial dentures are typically a less expensive option than implants and bridges. You can remove them for cleaning, which may make oral hygiene easier for some patients. However, partial dentures may not be as comfortable as other options. They can move around in the mouth, which some people find bothersome. They may also require periodic adjustments by Dr. Dhama to ensure a proper fit. Despite these drawbacks, partial dentures offer a practical solution for many people.
Full Dentures
Full dentures are designed to replace all the teeth in the upper or lower jaw. They consist of a gum-colored base that supports the artificial teeth. Full dentures are removable, making them easy to clean. They are a cost-effective option for those who have lost all their teeth.
Full dentures could restore your smile and improve your ability to chew and speak. However, they may require adjustments over time to maintain a proper fit. The jawbone can shrink without stimulation, causing the dentures to become loose. This can affect your ability to chew and speak comfortably. Dr. Dhama will schedule regular checkups to help ensure your denture fits comfortably as your jaw changes.
Consultation
Consulting a dental professional is crucial when deciding on a treatment for missing teeth. Each treatment option has its own set of benefits and drawbacks. Dr. Uttma Dham will consider your overall oral health, budget, and personal preferences. If you have missing teeth, contact Westside Dental Center today at (954) 251-0640 to schedule a consultation and see which treatment option could be right for you.