Have you lost one or more teeth? If so, then you understand the embarrassment of having an unfortunate gap in your smile. However, you may not yet fully realize how tooth loss can hurt the health of you smile as well. Fortunately, we have a number of different prosthetic options for replacing these lost teeth. What dental prosthetic is for me?
Dental Bridge
A dental bridge can replace up to three teeth in a row. The replacement teeth have crowns attached to each end, which we place on the teeth in each side of the gap in the smile. They can last between 10 and 15 years and help you avoid the misalignment that often develops as a result of tooth loss.
Partial Denture
Like a bridge, these replace a handful of missing teeth. However, these can address lost teeth scattered across the arch. Consisting of lifelike artificial teeth on a gum like base, the prosthetic attaches to the natural teeth with metal clasps, holding the replacement teeth into place.
Full Denture
If you are missing most or all of the teeth on one or both arches you may benefit from a set of dentures. The denture consists of a full set of natural looking teeth and a base designed to mimic the appearance of gum tissue. The prosthetic is held in place with natural suction, and possibly the help of an adhesive. They require periodic adjustment and can help you eat and speak easier.
Dental Implant
The other prosthetics we discussed all replace the crowns, or the visible parts of the tooth. However, this option can replace the root as well. The root consists of a titanium post inserted into the jawbone surgically. Once the area heals a crown will be placed on the titanium post. The implant replacement tooth looks natural and can actually last a lifetime.
ABOUT YOUR ASTORIA, NY, DENTIST:
Jeffrey Leibowitz, DDS, a native New Yorker, has welcomed patients and families from in and around Astoria, NY (including Queens, Manhattan, Brooklyn, and all surrounding communities) since opening his dental practice in 1991. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Leibowitz, call our office in Astoria today at 718-728-8320.
