Have you lost multiple teeth? If so, then a dental bridge may not be enough to restore your smile. In situations in which patients lose a majority, or possibly all, of their teeth, we may suggest a prosthetic. Which type of denture do you need? Will a full or partial be the best choice for addressing your missing teeth?
Partial
A partial addresses multiple lost teeth. Unlike a dental bridge, this one can even help if the teeth are spread out across the arch. The prosthetic consists of the replacement teeth, also known as pontics, and a base made from acrylic. There are also metal clasps that attach to the natural teeth, anchoring the new teeth in place.
Full
A full replaces all of the teeth on one or both arches. There will be a full row of custom teeth set in an acrylic base designed to mimic the appearance of gum tissue. The prosthetic will be held in place with natural suction, or possibly the assistance of a special adhesive.
Implant-Retained
With dental implants, we can secure a bridge, partial, or full denture. Since the implants act as natural tooth roots and stimulate the growth of jawbone tissue, your jaw won’t change shape due to loss of jawbone density. Your prosthetic can then last for decades, as opposed to the 5 to 10 years a removable denture often lasts before requiring replacement or adjustment.
How Does Tooth Loss Impact My Oral Health?
Without treatment, tooth loss can make eating a full variety of foods difficult. You can then end up depriving your body of essential nutrients. In addition, speaking can become difficult as a result of advanced tooth loss. Finally, gaps in your smile can increase the risk of misalignment, which in turn can lead to a tooth decay, gum trouble, and jaw joint strain.
Do You Need Dentures?
At Jeffrey Leibowitz, DDS, we can use a full or partial denture to address advanced tooth loss. We’ve proudly served our patients in Astoria, NY (including Queens, Manhattan, Brooklyn, and all surrounding communities) since 1991. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Leibowitz, call our office in Astoria today at 718-728-8320.
