Tooth loss is more common than you think. According to the American College of Prosthodontists, over 35 million Americans do not have any teeth, and 178 million people in the U.S. are missing at least one tooth. If you count yourself among this population, then tooth replacement is essential for your oral and general health. The question is what kind of replacement is best for you—dentures, a partial or crown and bridge? Dr. Dennis Stansbury, the dentist in Tyler, can help you choose the option that will best suit your smile and your lifestyle.
What are Dentures?
If you are edentulous, meaning that all of the teeth along either or both your top and bottom arches are missing, then dentures have been a successful and reliable tooth replacement choice for decades. Dentures are made of natural looking false teeth that are mounted on a gum colored base of acrylic. Dr. Stansbury will custom craft dentures in Tyler that are not only attractive, but fit comfortably as well. You’ll be able to smile and speak with confidence and eat all the foods you love without the worry of dentures that slip or fall out.
What is a Partial?
But what if you are only missing a few teeth? Then, of course, there’s no reason to consider a full denture. In this case, Dr. Stansbury recommends a partial. This oral prosthetic consists of false teeth attached to a metal frame that may include a portion of gum colored base. Clasps that wrap around healthy teeth hold the partial securely in place. If you have one or two teeth remaining in between missing ones, then the partial will be designed to fit between these teeth. In this way, only one prosthetic is needed to complete your smile.
What is a Crown and Bridge?
A crown and bridge also replaces one or more missing teeth like a partial, but this device is a permanent fixture. Dr. Stansbury files away a portion of structure from healthy teeth alongside the gap in your smile. Crowns are adhesively bonded to these teeth in order to support a span of false teeth that literally bridge the gap.
Caring for Your Restorations
For removable restorations such as a partial or full denture, you’ll need to purchase a special denture brush and cleaner. Brush every night before bed and store your prosthetic in water or a denture cleaning solution while you sleep. For a crown and bridge, brush just as you do your natural teeth. Also, be sure to use a special floss threader in order to remove plaque and debris that can get trapped between the bridge and your gums.
Contact Our Office Today
Don’t contend with the difficulties of missing teeth. Dr. Stansbury would be glad to discuss your tooth replacement options. Call our office today to schedule a consultation.