Missing teeth can be an embarrassing ordeal. Over time, whether due to tooth decay or the adverse effects of gum disease, people may begin to lose their teeth. But that doesn’t mean you can’t regain your youthful smile. In today’s blog, your Livonia dentist, Dr. James Stewart, explains the benefits and options our dentures provide for renewing your smile.
Don’t Wait!
When a patient loses a tooth, the body stops supplying that area of the jawbone with necessary doses of calcium and phosphorus. These nutrients are essential for maintaining jaw tissue, and without them, the bone may begin to deteriorate. Over time, further tooth loss occurs. In addition, the teeth surrounding the missing tooth often begin to drift, affecting your appearance and ability to chew. Dentures, including full, partial, or implant-retained, provide a cosmetic and restorative solution.
Partial Dentures
Partial dentures allow Dr. Stewart to replace more than one missing tooth. Often, partials are attached using clasps on either side of the replacement teeth that connect to the natural teeth adjacent to the missing teeth. The replacement teeth are crafted to blend seamlessly with your smile. Partial dentures allow secure and natural looking tooth replacement.
Full Dentures
With full dentures, Dr. Stewart replaces all teeth on either the upper or lower arch, or both in many cases. As with partials, the replacement teeth are custom-made to provide esthetically pleasing restoration. Traditionally, dentures are held into place with the use of adhesives. But as we’ll see, dental implant-retained dentures offer a more secure, permanent solution.
Dental Implants
Dental implants can replace a single missing tooth or provide full, permanent dentures. Dr. Stewart anchors a special titanium post into the socket of the missing tooth. Next, Dr. Stewart waits for the area to heal. In that time, the bone bonds with the post, allowing your replacement tooth to act as natural teeth. A custom-made crown is placed on top of the post, returning your tooth to optimal function. With dental implant-retained dentures, patients no longer require adhesives and never have to worry about slippage when talking or eating. An entire set of specially crafted teeth can be created by an expert ceramist and placed by Dr. Stewart.
Schedule an Appointment with Your Livonia Cosmetic Dentist
Do you have one or more missing teeth? Make an appointment with Livonia cosmetic dentist Dr. Stewart to discuss treatment options and return your smile to full function and appearance. Contact our 48154 dentist office. Schedule a visit today by calling (734) 425-4400. We serve patients from Livonia, Farmington, Farmington Hills, and surrounding areas.