For many people, missing teeth can create a feeling of diminished self-confidence. Modern dentistry can not only replace the gaps in your smile; our team can also create long-term replacements that look and feel just like your natural teeth.
The options for replacement depend mainly on the fact where the gap is located:
1. Denture:
- This is the most widely used replacement option mainly for patients who have lost many teeth or need a full set of upper and lower dentures.
- Dentures replace multiple missing teeth and restore function. The commonest form of this denture is acrylic denture, which is indicated in most situations and gaps in the mouth. They can be bulky and catch food more than other forms of dentures but they are relatively easy to make and repair or add teeth if needed in future.
- Metal dentures are the next option to fill the gaps, these are chrome cobalt dentures.
The main aspects of a metal denture which makes them better in many respects to acrylic are:
- Clasp, these are made of chrome cobalt and this is cast as part of the main denture. The properties of chrome cobalt are such that these dentures perform well for many years as there is a perfect balance between stiffness and elasticity. With plastic or acrylic dentures these clasps are not made of chrome cobalt material and they are not cast part of the main denture. They are “glued in “
- These dentures are mainly tooth supported or partly gum supported. The more support you have from teeth less sinking down when you bite.
- Metal dentures are a lot thinner and smaller meaning dentures do not feel bulky.
- Better fit due to the way they are cast.
- Leaves the roof of the mouth uncovered and this keeps the taste, texture intact while eating.
- Hardly any gagging as denture does not go far back in the mouth.
2. Flexible dentures
Unlike the more traditional ridges, bulky denture material; Valplast or flexible dentures are made from a flexible plastic material which fits neatly into your mouth and is virtually invisible. They do not require any metal clasps to keep them in place. The plastic has almost a chameleon effect, it is so strong that the partial can be made very thin and so picks up the characteristics of the underlying tissue. The claps are of the same material and virtually disappear into surrounding tissues.
It is a great non-invasive alternative option to fixed appliance for example dental bridge.
3. Bridge
A bridge is a fixed dental restoration used to replace one or more missing teeth by joining an artificial tooth definitely to adjacent teeth or dental implants.
The main indications are
- Small gap/ few missing teeth
- Good oral health and motivation to maintain oral health.
- The gums and bone levels are of a satisfactory condition
- Supporting teeth should be of good quality
Fixed is mainly indicated for back teeth and the adhesive bridge is mainly indicated for missing front teeth. The different materials like porcelain bonded to metal, ceramic crowns like E-max and Zirconia are used to make these bridges.
4. Implants
A dental implant is used to support one or more false teeth. It is a titanium screw that can replace the root of a tooth. Just like a tooth root, it is placed into the jaw bone. This is then used to support a bridge or even denture.
Implants are safe and well-established treatment. They last almost lifetime if you look after them. Unlike dentures, they take a longer time to be completed. There is further information on this, on our website.
When you are ready to replace missing teeth you have a number of potential solutions available, each with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. Replacing your missing teeth is a big decision and it is important to consider several factors.
You do not have to make this decision alone. At Carillon Dental Care clinicians are well trained in providing the above options and we will help you assess the choices in light of your needs, personal preferences and financial considerations. We will help you to determine which one is the best one for you.
Contact us
Carillon Dental Care is at the centre of replacing missing teeth in Leicester & Loughborough. Our treatment coordinator would be happy to discuss your needs with you. Our Treatment Coordinator is also able to arrange a free, initial consultation if you are keen on replacing missing teeth at Carillon.