Losing teeth can be traumatic, regardless of the cause. Unfortunately, many of us will face this problem eventually. Though some people are able to keep their teeth well into old age, many more find themselves facing decisions about how to replace teeth lost to damage, decay or gum disease.
Traditional Dentures and Dental Bridges
Perhaps the most common treatment for missing teeth is prosthetics such as dentures or dental bridges. Dentures must be affixed to the gums with special adhesive. Dental bridges are usually attached to adjoining teeth, and can be fixed or removable.
Some find dentures to be a comfortable, manageable option, but others do not. Disadvantages of dentures include:
- Dentures can shift in the mouth when talking or eating
- Dentures must be removed for cleaning
- Dentures can cause irritation and can even result in sores in the mouth
- Dentures do not stimulate growth in the jawbone
The contours of the gums and jawbone change over time when you wear dentures, often because of bone loss. Dentures, then, must be refitted from time to time to prevent the growing discomfort of an improper fit.
Dental Implants
Dental implants provide a permanent solution for missing teeth, and are becoming more and more popular. Implants offer several advantages over traditional dentures, such as:- They are permanent and so do not move in the mouth
- They do not need to be removed and can be cleaned much like natural teeth
- They are affixed to the jawbone and help stimulate bone growth
The dental implant itself is a screw made of titanium, which creates a natural bond with the jawbone. After the implants are placed and have sufficiently healed, permanent prosthetics are placed on the implants, providing a long-lasting, natural-looking smile.
The dental implant itself is a screw made of titanium, which creates a natural bond with the jawbone. After the implants are placed and have sufficiently healed, permanent prosthetics are placed on the implants, providing a long-lasting, natural-looking smile.
Some patients have suffered extensive bone loss, especially in the lower jaw, due to lost teeth and long-term denture use. These patients might require bone grafts to the jaw in order to supply sufficient bone mass to anchor the implants. Dr. Firouzian can evaluate your individual situation to determine if dental implants will work well for you.
To find out more about prosthetic dentistry and how these procedures can help restore your natural smile, call (614) 848-5001 or contact our office to schedule an appointment or a consultation.
