WHAT ARE THE DIFFERENT WAYS TO REPLACE YOUR MISSING TEETH?
There are many ways to replace your missing teeth and your dentist will be able to recommend the best option for you, whether it’s a denture, bridge or implant.
Complete/full or partial dentures
Complete dentures or full dentures are designed to replace a full set of missing teeth. They can either fit on the upper arch, lower arch or both, and are designed to be easily removed, whether it’s to clean your denture or simply to give your gums a rest. To help support your mouth and gums, you may choose to use a denture adhesive such as those offered in the Polident range. Denture adhesives can help ensure that your dentures are kept firmly in place, and help block food particles from becoming trapped underneath them.
Partial Dentures
Your dentist or dental professional may recommend partial dentures if you only have a few teeth missing. These clip onto any remaining natural teeth and can help you feel more comfortable if you are only missing a small number of teeth.
Fixed replacement teeth
If you would prefer a more fixed replacement solution, your dentist may recommend a fixed prosthetic to replace your missing teeth. There are several options to help you find the one that suits your lifestyle.
- Artificial crowns: These are replacement teeth which fill the gap left in your mouth. These are fixed to your natural teeth to hold them in place.
- Implants: Acting like a normal tooth, a root implant is surgically connected to your jawbone through the gum. These can be ‘loaded’ with a dental prosthetic such as a crown or a bridge.
- Implant-supported fixed dentures: Your new teeth are built onto a metal and acrylic base (a bridge), which are then screwed onto two or three root implants that have been surgically connected to your jawbone. The screws can be loosened by a dental professional to remove the denture if needed.
- Implant-supported removable dentures: These work just like implant-supported fixed dentures, but instead of being locked in place with screws, the dentures are fitted with attachments that snap on and off the root implants whenever you like.
A dental prosthetic can boost your confidence and your dentist will be able to talk to you about your options for replacing missing teeth.
