Missing a tooth — or several — can be stressful. We value having a full set of teeth, so it is, unfortunately, easy to feel bad about losing them. Whether you’ve lost a tooth to decay, trauma, or any other reason, the last thing you want is to feel as though you are hiding your smile in pictures and amongst friends. While having a space is not ideal aesthetically, it can also cause other health issues. For instance, missing a tooth can lead to difficulty chewing, which can then cause you to miss out on key nutrients from food. Moreover, it can cause your jawbone to not receive enough stimulation, potentially leading to the loss of bone density. With all of this in mind, it is essential to fill in any space left by a missing tooth as soon as possible. Two great solutions are dentures and dental bridges. In today’s blog, your Astoria, NY, dentist talks about both prosthetic appliances and the ways they can help you complete your smile.
When Dentures Are The Right Option
Dentures are able to fit around existing teeth or even replace an entire row of missing teeth. They can be full, partial, or implant-retained — depending on your needs. When you have them crafted, your dentist will take precise measurements of your mouth to ensure they fit comfortably and securely. Moreover, they are color-matched to your teeth and gums, so they fit in your mouth seamlessly, not drawing attention to themselves. Dentures can typically be removed, so you can easily clean them or have adjustments made. Alternately, you can opt for a prosthetic secured with dental implants for a more permanent appliance. When you are not wearing them, make sure to keep them in either a special denture solution or in warm water. Whatever your needs are, your dentist will work with you to ensure you receive the best possible kind for your unique smile.
When Is A Dental Bridge Appropriate?
While dentures work well when you are missing several teeth spread throughout your mouth, a dental bridge is typically the recommended option when you are only missing a single tooth or a couple adjacent to one another. It is a prosthetic that is made from ceramic or porcelain. The false tooth — also known as a pontic — is supported by the teeth adjacent to the space. These are often outfitted with crowns to securely support the prosthetic. Like dentures, they are custom-made and color-matched to blend in with the rest of your smile. Because bridges are supported by other teeth, they are a more permanent solution. To maintain one, treat it like you would your other teeth and brush twice a day, using non-abrasive toothpaste.
Contact Us To Learn More About Dentures And Bridges
If you are missing teeth, it is important to fill the space as quickly as possible. To schedule a consultation, please call Jeffrey Leibowitz, DDS, in Astoria, NY, today at 718-728-8320.
