In our last blog, we discussed how implants and crowns address individual missing teeth. In today’s blog, we’re going to move on to solutions for more severe cases of tooth loss. If you have gaps spread out across your smile, or two to three missing teeth in a row, then you may benefit from an implant-secured bridge or partial from your Livonia, MI, dentist.
Tackling Tooth Loss
When we lose our teeth, this causes problems for our appearance and our oral health. For example, you have difficulties eating your favorite foods, and being forced to limit your diet could deny your body essential vitamins and nutrients. People with more severe cases of tooth loss also report trouble speaking clearly too. The body responds to missing tooth roots by stopping the supply of calcium and phosphorus to the jawbone around the lost teeth, leading to further tooth loss and an aged appearance as the jawbone loses mass and density and breaks down. Other issues related to tooth loss include misalignment, tooth decay, gum disease, TMJ disorder, and bruxism (teeth grinding).
Bridge or Partial?
Addressing your missing teeth with implant dentistry means we restore function and beauty to your smile. If you have between one and three lost teeth in a row, then we may suggest a bridge. If you have several missing teeth and gaps spread out across your arch, but not enough to require a full denture, then we may suggest a partial. Both options will be created based on detailed impressions and measurements we take of your smile. The bridge will consist of pontics, or new teeth, with crowns attached to each end. The partial has a base that looks like acrylic, and lifelike pontics to address the lost teeth. We place the crowns onto the dental implants to support the bridge, and attach a partial to the new tooth roots too, providing secure and stable replacement.
The Implant Difference
Dental implants stimulate the growth of jawbone tissue, as the body sees them as natural tooth roots. As a result, the new teeth can stay in place for decades, possibly even a lifetime! Your prosthetics will never slip, and never need removal for soaking or cleaning. You enjoy a comfortable, stable, and lifelike solution to more advanced cases of tooth loss, and one that lasts much longer than traditional bridges or removable dentures!
DO YOU HAVE QUESTIONS ABOUT IMPLANT PROSTHETICS?
We want to help you by providing a prosthetic that lasts for many years to come and offers a lifelike appearance. To learn more about treating more severe cases of missing teeth, then call James Stewart, DDS, dental implant office in Livonia, MI, at (734) 425-4400. We also serve the residents of Farmington, Plymouth, Dearborn Heights, and all surrounding communities.