We work with a team of prosthodontist, periodontitis, and general dentists to help people with one or more missing teeth enjoy a full and functional smile. No referrals to other offices, as we complete the entire process under one roof. In today’s blog, your Houston, TX, dentist looks at how we address multiple missing teeth with dentures, whether they are secured with suction or clasps, or with advanced dental implants.
Removable Full and Partial Dentures
Removable dentures mean they must be taken out for cleaning and soaking periodically. A full replaces every tooth on one or both arches, and consists of a complete set of lifelike and durable teeth placed into an acrylic base, which is designed to look like gum tissue. Natural suction holds them in place, and people may also use a special adhesive. A partial works for people with gaps spread out across the smile, so the prosthetic consists of an acrylic base, replacement teeth, and metal clasps that attach to remaining natural teeth to secure the prosthetic. Both options last for between 5 and 10 years, requiring replacement as the jaw ridge changes shape over time. Each is custom-made based on detailed impressions taken of your smile, ensuring a comfortable fit!
Securing Them with Implant Dentistry
Dental implants provide a number of advantages over removable options. For one, once we insert dental implants into the jawbone, they bond with the bone tissue like natural tooth roots. This prevents the loss of jawbone mass and density, so the ridge doesn’t chape shape and your prosthetic, which we attach to the implant could last for decades to come, possibly even a lifetime. They don’t need to be removed for cleaning or soaking, and they never slip when you eat or speak. The stability and long-lasting aspect often make this a preferable choice for people with tooth loss.
Which One is Right For Me?
We will first need to examine your smile to look for underlying health issues that could compromise dental implants, such as advanced gum disease or a loss of jawbone tissues. We can then address these with treatment or bone grafting to prepare your smile and make sure you’re ready for implant placement. The one we prescribe will depend on the cause and extent of your tooth loss, and the current state of your oral health. If you have any questions, then contact our team today.
DO YOU HAVE QUESTIONS ABOUT OUR DENTURES?
Even if you’ve lost all of your natural teeth, our team is here to help you enjoy a full and attractive smile once again. To learn more about our approach to replacing multiple missing teeth, schedule an appointment by calling MMC Dental in Houston, TX, today at (713) 926-8896.