When tooth loss is too severe for treatment with a dental bridge, then you may need a more substantial prosthetic. For several gaps that don’t yet require a full denture, we could create a custom-made partial. In today’s blog, your Richfield, MN, dentist talks about our custom and lifelike sets of partial dentures.
The Causes and Risks of Advanced Tooth Loss
Losing multiple natural teeth could mean trouble for your smile’s health, function, and appearance. These gaps could hinder clear speech and even limit the kinds of foods you can enjoy. In addition, you could strain your jaw joints due to imbalance in your smile, leading to painful disorders like TMD or bruxism (teeth grinding). Teeth could drift from position as a result of these gaps in your smile, so misalignment could occur and with it, an increased risk for tooth decay and gum disease. We want you to feel proud to smile, and to also enjoy good oral health too. Which is why you need to seek prosthetic dental care!
Partial Dentures
For cases too severe for a dental bridge, but serious enough to require the placement of a full set of dentures, we may suggest a partial. The denture contains an acrylic base that looks like gum tissues, with new teeth included that will fit snugly in the gaps in your smile. You then have a complete smile when the prosthetic is in place. Metal clasps will attach to natural teeth to secure the new prosthetic firmly in place. They tend to last 5 to 10 years before requiring replacement, and will need to be soaked and cleaned regularly. Each one is custom-made to ensure optimal appearance and a comfortable fit.
Protecting Your Smile
You can also take steps to keep your remaining natural teeth strong and in place. For example, continue to see us every six months so we can monitor your smile for signs of trouble, like advanced gum disease. We also remove all plaque and tartar with a cleaning, which helps prevent major complications and further tooth loss. At home, take time to clean your prosthetic correctly, and to brush and floss your smile daily. Try to cut back on sugary foods and drinks too, and avoid cigarettes or other tobacco products. These actions help preserve your prosthetic, and safeguard your natural teeth too!
If you have any questions about addressing your missing teeth, then contact our team today.
Do You Have Questions About Dental Prosthetics?
We would like to help you smile without hesitation once again. If you have any questions about restoring your smile to optimal health, function, and beauty, or if you would like to schedule an appointment, contact your Richfield, MN, dentist, Dr. Keller, by calling (612) 861-7188.
