Missing teeth must be replaced as soon as possible for Philadelphia area patients to maintain function and beauty of their smiles. Teeth that are missing for extended periods without replacement may cause the existing teeth to shift out of place, resulting in misalignment. Dr. A and the team of Dental Arts Group encourage patients to learn about restorative options in order to keep their smile looking and working its best.
There are three primary methods of replacing missing teeth in dentistry, which include:
- Dental implants
- Dental bridges
- Dentures (partial and full)
Those who want a removable restoration, or are interested in the most economical way, may want to ask their dentist about dentures.
Dentures bring back the beauty and function of a smile. For individuals missing one a few teeth within the dental arch, partial dentures are best.
Partial dentures are fabricated to snap into the dental arch and replace missing teeth with pontics. Pontics are false teeth that are part of the partial dentures and slide into place where needed. Partial dentures are snapped in and out of the smile and are easy to clean and care for. This is a large draw for patients who are concerned about their oral health and any prosthetics that are a part of their smiles.
Many patients love using partial dentures as a temporary solution until they have decided on a more permanent option. Dental implants may be pricey but can last a lifetime and function just like natural teeth. Dental bridges are a wonderful middle-of-the-road option but require removal of tooth enamel on the anchor teeth, which makes them an irreversible solution. Dr. A and the team of Dental Arts Group may suggest partial dentures for patients who are still trying to make a decision as to which restorative option is best for them. Some patients may be completely satisfied with using partial dentures for life and can enjoy them for many years to come.