As we mentioned in our last blog, the dental bridge is a great way to address a gap in your smile. But if you have more than one gap in your smile, even if it’s spread out across the smile, we may suggest a partial denture. In today’s blog, your Astoria, NY, dentist talks about how we craft and secure these dentures.
Complex Cases of Tooth Loss
A partial denture is a great way to address more complex cases of tooth loss, such as situations in which there are multiple gaps spread out across the smile. Addressing these gaps helps prevent common complications. For example, untreated tooth loss could cause surrounding teeth to drift from position, which causes dental misalignment and with it, an increased risk of factors like cavities and gum disease. Missing teeth also strain bite balance and place pressure on the jaw joints. As a result, the chances of complications like TMJ disorder and bruxism (teeth grinding) could increase as well. Not to mention the risks of trouble eating and lowered nutritional intake as a result, or problems speaking clearly or engaging in social intersections.
Creating a Partial Denture
We don’t want to see your overall quality of life suffer. We will start the process of treating your tooth loss by assessing the cause and extent. Treatment could begin with correcting these underlying concerns, which safeguards other teeth in your smile.We then take detailed digital images and measurements of your smile. Using this information, our team will be able to design and craft a denture in a lab setting. The finished product will contain an acrylic base that looks like gum tissue, with your ceramic teeth attached. The ceramic we use ensures a more lifelike appearance, and can still absorb daily bite fires. Metal clasps will attach to nearby teeth to secure your denture firmly! For many, these can last up to ten years in some cases.
Avoiding Further Tooth Loss
To help prevent further tooth loss, you should always take time to brush and floss daily, which limits plaque buildup and helps prevent issues like tooth decay and gum disease. Try to avoid tobacco products, and also see us every six months for a checkup and cleaning, so we can monitor your smile and prevent major plaque and tartar buildup. If you have any questions about our approach to treating missing teeth, then contact our team today.
Do You Have Questions About Our Solutions for Missing Teeth?
A complete smile is possible, so don’t live with the negative impacts of missing teeth. To learn more about our dental prosthetics, then schedule a consultation by calling Jeffrey Leibowitz, DDS, in Astoria, NY, today at 718-728-8320.
