Bridges, Partials & Dentures: Solutions for Missing Teeth
There are many advantages to having a full and strong smile. The two most obvious are so your teeth are both completely functional, and cosmetically pleasing. If you are missing teeth, your mouth will not fully function, your smile will not be complete, and you will suffer from a lower quality of life. Many people who are missing teeth hide their smile at all costs. Unfortunately, you may also have some trouble chewing food, and speaking clearly. Dr. Ginn wants you to have your smile back, a fully functioning mouth, and the confidence to let your smile show.
Dr. Ginn offers many different solutions to missing teeth including bridges, partials, and dentures. All of our restorations and tooth replacements are made of the highest quality materials by talented lab technicians. Below, Dr. Ginn will outline three solutions for people who have missing teeth.
What is a bridge?
A dental bridge is a dental appliance that closes the gap in your teeth created by one or more missing teeth. A bridge is made up of two crowns on either side of the gap in your teeth. These crowns act as anchors and are referred to as abutment teeth. Your dental bridge will be supported by either your remaining real teeth or dental implants. Dental bridges are permanent fixtures, and are not designed to be removable.
What is a partial?
Partial dentures are a removable dental appliance that is made up of replacement teeth attached to a base that is a designed to look like your gums. Dr. Ginn utilizes partial dentures for patients who still have several real, healthy teeth. A partial denture will fill the gaps between your real teeth and complete the smile. Your partial dentures attach to your teeth by way of a metal framework and clasps, or connectors, which are designed to look natural.
What is a full denture?
Like partial dentures, full dentures are completely removable. Unlike partial dentures, full dentures are used when all of a patient’s real teeth are missing or have fallen out. Dentures will help both the functionality and cosmetics of your smile. Full dentures are complete tooth replacements that are fixed to a gum-colored base and held in place by denture adhesive. Not only can dentures improve the look and function of your smile, they can also fill out the appearance of your face and keep your facial muscles from sagging.
When considering dentures, it is important to understand the types of dentures available. These include conventional, immediate, and overdenture.
What happens after I receive my dentures?
It is completely normal for your mouth and new teeth to feel awkward for weeks after your denture is placed. This awkwardness will last until you become accustomed to them. It is normal for your denture to feel loose, your mouth to feel some irritation and tenderness, and an increase in salivary flow. As time goes by, and you adjust to your new dentures, these issues should subside. Dr. Ginn suggests scheduling follow-up appointments in order to check the fit and make adjustments as needed. It is important to take proper care of your dentures to ensure that they stay healthy. You should brush your dentures daily to eliminate food and plaque.
How do I maintain them?
Please note that if you opt to receive a bridge, partial, or full denture, you should maintain good oral health habits. Brushing, flossing, using mouthwash, and scheduling regular check ups with Dr. Ginn. Maintaining good dental habits will keep your real teeth and dental restorations healthy.