We had all lost teeth at some point in our life, and it was an incredible feeling since it felt like we were becoming grownups. On the other hand, having the same thing as an adult is quite stressful. Adult teeth can be lost for a variety of causes, including cavities, gum diseases, health issues, and accidents. Losing them causes tremendous distress since it introduces new challenges, such as chewing difficulties, and it looks bad. Fortunately, there are solutions for replacing missing teeth with tooth-like artificial teeth. We are here to assist you in how to accomplish it.

When it comes to replacing missing teeth, there are generally two basic possibilities. One alternative is removable prosthesis, while the other is fixed prosthesis.

1. Removable Prosthesis:

Removable prosthetics or dentures entails replacing teeth and gums with a removable, non-permanent prosthesis. They can replace teeth in the entire jaw, either upper or lower (full dentures), or a variety of separate or combined tooth gaps (partial dentures).

Partial Dentures:

If one, two, or more teeth are missing, it is suggested to obtain a partial denture. They have a gum-coloured plastic base on which prosthetic teeth are held. Their base is frequently composed of metals (cobalt chromium) that rest on the surface of the gum.

Another variety is available where the entire base is plastic and they are just supplied for a short period as a temporary solution to avoid a toothless state.

Complete dentures:

Complete dentures are given to either the upper or lower jaw when all the teeth are missing.

What is the process of getting dentures?

Firstly, an impression of teeth and gums is taken and it is sent to a laboratory. Using the impression, the lab technician creates a denture. You must visit your dentist several times depending on the prosthesis, where your dentist will examine the laboratory make-up for your speech, tooth colour match, and fit with your gums several times before the final result.

What is the after care of dentures?

It is normally recommended to take dentures off at night and soak them in water overnight. In the morning, washing with a soft bristle brush using any denture cleanser is advised. It is necessary to clean the underlying gum area daily.

Prosthesis may lose its fit with the gum over time. If it happens, the dentist recommends going back to your dentist to have your denture relined so that it sits more properly against your gums. Dentures must be re-lined on a regular basis as they lose their hold in the mouth. The procedure is usually inexpensive and consumes very little time.

2. Fixed Prosthesis:

Fixed prostheses are ones that cannot be removed once they have been placed within the mouth by a dentist. When it comes to replacing lost teeth or teeth, there are two types of fixed prostheses.

Dental Bridge:

A dental bridge is a prosthesis that replaces missing teeth indefinitely. By cutting the surrounding teeth, a cap (crown) is given on adjacent teeth and they are joined to the one to be replaced on each side. Bridges are typically composed of porcelain, metal, a combination of the two, or zirconia.

It normally takes two sittings, with one sitting involving the trimming of surrounding teeth and the creation of an impression of the teeth and gums, which is then sent to the laboratory. It will be permanently cemented in the mouth at the next sitting.

Dental Implants:

Dental implant is placed to replace missing tooth’s root by a screw like prosthesis that is placed inside the jaw bone by a surgical procedure and it is intended to support overlying crown, bridge and denture.

The dental implant surgery is usually done by a periodontist or oral and maxilla-facial surgeon who has completed four year training prior to dental degree. The surgery is usually done in a single sitting, where your gum is cut open and a hole is drilled into your bone, where the screw is placed. The bone is allowed to heal and attach to the screw for some months and after that the abutment system will be installed.

Are Implants better than bridges?

Dental implants are more expensive than bridges, but they are superior. They last longer, support the bone, and prevent bone loss. One significant advantage is that there is no need to sacrifice the neighbouring teeth while placing an implant, as is done when placing a bridge.

How much does a dental implant cost?

Dental implants are the most expensive alternative. In Australia, per tooth cost is around $3,000 to $5,000 and it can go up if you need additional procedures to assist your implant placement. These are usually minor surgical procedures like bone graft placement when there is an inadequate bone level surrounding the implant and sinus lift procedures.

Dental implant procedures are rarely covered by insurance, even if it is covered, it usually only covers half of the cost, leaving you to pay the remainder alone. This varies greatly between insurance carriers. Before receiving therapy, you should check with your insurance company to see how much is covered.

Conclusion

Finally, there are numerous choices for replacing missing teeth. It is determined by the number of lost teeth and the expense involved. The best option is an implant, which feels like a natural tooth and is the most comfortable.

If you have any questions about this, please contact us.