A whole smile is vital for maintaining optimal oral health. Tooth loss can lead to a number of problems and the health and appearance of our teeth. In order to avoid facial collapse or the further loss of teeth you may need a prosthetic. Do you need dentures or dental implants? How do these prosthetic options differ?
Dentures
These are recommended for patients who have lost multiple teeth. Partials address those who have lost several teeth across the arch. They receive a prosthetic that attaches to the remaining teeth with metal clasps and supports the new teeth. A full set helps those who have lost all of their teeth. These consist of artificial teeth in an acrylic base, one designed to mimic the appearance of gum tissue. Held in place with natural suction, they provide replacement for all of the teeth on one or both arches.
Dental Implants
Dental implants can replace a single lost tooth or be used to support a full prosthetic. Instead of being held in place with metal clasps or suction, an implant made from biocompatible titanium material is surgically placed into the jaw. After the area heals a restoration is placed on top. If you lost all of your teeth, multiple implant posts can be placed to support a set of dentures. While dentures are often considered more cost-effective, dental implants last longer and don’t require adjustments. Of course, which option works best will depend on a number of different factors, including your current oral health and the cause/severity of your tooth loss.
The Importance of Replacing Missing Teeth
Replacing lost teeth is much more than just an esthetic concern. Tooth loss can cause difficulty being understood when you speak, lead to problems eating many types of food, and can lead to misalignment and facial collapse (which causes patients to appear older).
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.
