Missing Tooth Replacement
Have you always dreamed of a perfect smile? Are your missing teeth embarrassing you and holding you back from enjoying life? Do you feel people get the wrong impression of you because you’re afraid to smile? A good smile can get you the next big job or promotion, land you your next big date, and can even impact your ability to make friends! Unfortunately, missing teeth don’t help you achieve a perfect smile. Luckily, Yaletown Laser & Cosmetic Dentistry offers a few effective ways to fill the gaps in your smile, help you love the way you look, and even improve your life! Each year the cosmetic dentistry industry is flooded with patients looking to improve their smiles and the replacement of missing teeth is one of the most popular procedures. From partial dentures, to full dentures, to dental implants, regardless of your budget and oral situation, your local dentist can help you enhance your smile and your life! Let’s take a look at the various methods of replacing missing teeth, how you choose which procedure is right for you, and how each treatment works.
Partial and Complete Dentures
The most popular remedy for missing teeth are dentures. There are two types of dentures: partial and complete. Partial dentures typically consist of replacement teeth attached to a pink or gum-coloured base, and connected by a metal framework that secures the denture. Partial dentures are used when one or more teeth remain in the upper or lower jaw. Complete dentures are used when no teeth remain in either the upper or lower jaw. They can be either “conventional” or “immediate”. A conventional denture is ready for placement in the mouth about 8-12 weeks after all teeth have been removed. Immediate dentures are made in advance and do not require the gum tissue to heal, thus allowing for placement immediately after the teeth have been removed. Unfortunately, gum tissue reformation leads to changes in the mouth making immediate dentures more prone to changes.
Dental Implants
Don’t want to have dentures? There is a more permanent alternative to replacing missing teeth! Dental implants securely and permanently replace missing teeth allowing for an improved smile and a more confident you. Dental implants consist of a titanium peg that is placed in the jawbone to simulate the tooth root. A dental crown is then placed over the titanium peg to simulate natural tooth structure. The process usually requires two dental visits: one to place the titanium peg, and another one to secure the crown.
So how do you know which treatment is right for you? Ultimately, it may come down to cost. Dental implants although a better option for your mouth, are typically quite expensive. If you can afford the cost, then dental implants are the way to go. However, if you want to effectively and affordably improve your look and change your life, dentures are a viable option. Consult your local dental professional for advice on what treatment will be right for you. Change your look and life by simply replacing your missing teeth!