If you have a single gap in your smile due to tooth loss, we could help with a dental bridge. But what if you have several gaps, and these are spread out on different parts of the arch? To restore function and beauty, you need a prosthetic, but one that can handle this kind of tooth loss. In today’s blog, your Richfield, MN, dentist talks about partial dentures.
The Complications of Multiple Missing Teeth
When you lose a few teeth in a row, we prescribe a bridge, as mentioned above. If you lose all or most of your teeth, then a full denture is recommended. But what if you have multiple gaps, spread out far from one another, but not serious enough to require extraction and a full denture? For these, we will recommend a partial denture. Obtaining a prosthetic means filling these gaps to prevent complications like misalignment, TMJ disorder, and bruxism. You’re also able to eat a greater variety of food and smile with confidence, and you can avoid complications with speech as well. Treating tooth loss means a better quality of life.
Designing a Custom Prosthetic
Every smile is different, and every case of tooth loss is unique as well. To begin, we will make a detailed exam of your smile and obtain images with digital scanning technology. This allows us to assess the severity of the misalignment and the state of your smile, and also identify any underlying oral health issues that need attention. This way, we can treat issues before we move forward, and help preserve your remaining natural teeth. After all, we want you to hang onto your natural teeth as long as possible, and enjoy better oral health.
The Partial Denture
The images and measurements we gather with digital technology will be combined to create a 3D model, one that allows us to design your partial. The partial denture will contain an acrylic base that looks like gum tissue, with new teeth set in it. The new teeth will be crafted from materials like ceramic, which we can shade to blend with your smile and offer a more lifelike appearance. They also provide a durable chewing surface as well. There will be metal clasps too, which are invisible when the prosthetic is in place. These attach to natural teeth and secure the prosthetic firmly, so you can smile with confidence, speak without hesitation, and eat your favorite foods again.
Do You Have Questions About Prosthetic Dentistry?
We would like to help you enjoy a full and healthy smile again. If you have any questions about addressing more serious cases of tooth loss, or if you would like to schedule an appointment, contact your Richfield, MN, dentist, Dr. Keller, by calling (612) 861-7188.
