Missing several teeth — or even just one — can be incredibly stressful. It can easily affect our self-confidence, making it difficult to smile, even when feeling happy. It is undoubtedly an aesthetic problem, but did you know it can also cause larger health issues? In addition to being a cosmetic issue, missing teeth can also lessen the nutrients you receive from food and can even cause your jawbone to deteriorate. In severe cases, this can cause your face to sink in, leading to other health problems. Whether you have cosmetic or health concerns, it is important to fill in any missing teeth as quickly as possible. Dentures and dental bridges can help, and they are both useful in different situations. In today’s blog, your Kansas City, MO dentist discusses the benefits of both solutions and the situations in which each is appropriate.
When Do You Need A Dental Bridge?
A dental bridge is used when you are either missing a single tooth or several next to one another. It is a prosthetic that is made from either porcelain or ceramic, which closely mimics the look and feel of your natural teeth. It is easily color-matched, so it fits in seamlessly within your smile. The prosthetic tooth is known as a pontic, and it is supported by your existing teeth on either side of the gap. These are known as abutment teeth, and they are outfitted with crowns to increase their strength. It is called a bridge because the pontic bridges the gap left by your lost tooth. Because the bridge is affixed to other teeth, this is a permanent solution that will provide you with a full smile for many years to come.
When Are Dentures Needed?
While bridges can work when you are missing a single tooth or several next to one another, dentures can replace an entire row of missing teeth or fit around existing teeth. There are several options for dentures; you can receive full, partial, or implant-supported ones. As the names suggest, full dentures replace an entire row of teeth, partial dentures replace some teeth, and implanted-supported dentures remain in your mouth permanently. The benefit of traditional dentures is that you can easily remove them to clean them and can have them altered if necessary. Implant-supported dentures are permanent and help mimic your missing teeth roots, ensuring your jaw gets proper stimulation. No matter which option is best for you, we go to great lengths to make sure they match the rest of your natural teeth and gum colors, so they blend into your mouth seamlessly. When you visit us for a consultation, we will suggest the best option for your unique needs.
Learn More About Dental Bridges And Dentures
If you have any questions about dental bridges or dentures, please do not hesitate to contact us today. You can schedule an appointment with Delightful Dental in Kansas City, MO by calling 816-942-7669.