Losing teeth can have lasting effects on your oral health and your well-being – especially if one has gone a while without replacement teeth. When we lose our teeth, our oral function suffers. In fact, many people with systemic tooth loss develop malnutrition due to difficulties with biting and chewing food.
Tooth loss will also change the shape of our faces, and not for the better. Without the roots of teeth to keep our jawbones active, the jaws will atrophy. Bone atrophy can make a person look significantly older because the face can appear sunken in. Beyond these effects, it is important to note that losing teeth takes a toll on our emotional well-being. Those who have lost teeth commonly suffer from low self-esteem, social anxiety, and depression. These are just a few reasons why it is important to seek treatment after tooth loss.
There are two types of dentures. One type is used to replace all the teeth missing in an arch. This type, a full denture, can replace a full arch of teeth on the upper or lower jaw. For those who are edentulous, two full dentures are necessary to replace both arches of lost teeth.
The other type of denture is made specifically to fit between empty tooth sockets and biological teeth. This type, a partial denture, is ideal for replacing a few missing teeth throughout an arch. Partial dentures fasten to the backs of teeth with clasps whereas full dentures lie on top of the gums where they are supported by the curve of the jawbone. Both types of dentures are made from the highest quality materials by trained technicians. Every denture is custom-made so that it fits properly.
Implant supported dentures take prosthetic teeth to the next level. A series of dental implants can be used to support a full arch of prosthetic teeth. By anchoring dentures to dental implants, patients can enjoy durable prosthetics that will not move. Implants will also help slow down bone atrophy – a common side effect of tooth loss – by keeping the jaw stimulated and active.
We treat tooth loss with compassion and the best modern dentistry can offer. If you have lost teeth, our team is here to provide beautiful replacement teeth that meet your needs and lifestyle. Call us today to reserve a tooth replacement consultation with Dr. Kuban.
What are the different types of dentures?
There are two basic types of dentures. One type, partial dentures, fits over empty tooth sockets and next to biological teeth. Since a partial denture is custom made, it can be fabricated to fit between the areas only where teeth are missing. If one is missing several, but not all of the teeth in an arch, a partial denture is a great treatment option. To stay in place, partial dentures snap onto the backs of teeth with clasping mechanisms.
The second basic type of denture is a full denture. A full denture replaces an entire arch of missing teeth. It rests on top of the gums and is supported by the shape of the jaw. When a person is completely edentulous, upper and lower full dentures are necessary to complete one’s smile.
How often should dentures be replaced?
Patients wearing conventional dentures will likely notice changes in the way their dentures fit over time. As a result, dentures may need to be repaired and replaced over the years. The reason dentures begin to feel looser or bulky with time is due to bone atrophy – a common affliction associated with biological tooth loss. Without the roots of teeth to keep bone active, the body will resorb it. This process will change the shape of the jawbones. As the jaws change shape and atrophy, dentures will gradually feel slightly loose.
Since everyone is different, the rate of bone atrophy can vary among patients. Its best to report any changes in the way your prosthetics fit or perform to our dentist as soon as you can.
What are implant supported dentures?
Implant supported dentures are full arches of prosthetic teeth held in place by dental implants. This allows patients who have lost an entire arch of teeth the benefits of implant dentistry. The weight of a full denture and the pressure exerted upon it during oral function is completely supported by strategically positioned dental implants. These dental implants will disperse the weight put upon dentures evenly while also functioning like the roots of teeth to prevent bone atrophy. By keeping bone healthy and as intact as possible, the lifespan of one’s dentures can be significantly extended. Moreover, retaining bone is imperative for maintaining a youthful appearance after systemic tooth loss.
How much do dentures cost?
The cost of dentures can vary from person to person. Costs depend on the type of denture required and whether tooth extractions are necessary. Moreover, the out-of-pocket expense for dentures can vary from insurance company to insurance company. When considering the cost of prosthetic teeth, keep in mind that these prosthetics must be custom made by technicians. Today’s dentures are crafted from very fine materials to look as lifelike as possible. After an initial consultation, we will be able to provide an estimate of the expected costs.