Upper False Teeth Options
When patients are missing one or more of their teeth, it can make them feel self-conscious and insecure about their smile. When a patient is missing a majority or all of their teeth, they can avoid smiling altogether. When most or all of the teeth are damaged or missing, dentists typically recommend the use of dentures. While some patients feel embarrassed to have dentures, they are one of the most affordable options and can work well for some patients.
Below are the most common types of dentures used for replacing missing teeth:
Traditional Dentures
Complete or traditional dentures are used when a patient is missing all of their teeth in one or both of their jaws. These dentures rest on top of the gums and an adhesive is used to secure the dentures to the gums. In comparison, dental bridges use the existing teeth as an anchor. In most cases, complete dentures can be placed within 8-12 weeks once the existing teeth are extracted.
Partial Dentures
When a patient has some of their natural teeth in the upper or lower jaw, dentists often use partial dentures. Partial dentures use a pink-colored base which is attached to a metal piece which secures the dentures in the mouth.
This type of denture can be removed and are a convenient solution. The dentures can easily be removed as needed. Partial dentures aid in preventing the movement of the remaining teeth as well. They are made from all-acrylic or acrylic material.
Custom Dentures
Custom dentures are created from more expensive materials and result in a more natural-looking smile. Patients are actually able to see the custom denture prior to its completion. Because denture is customized to the patient’s smile, it is quite natural in its appearance and delivers good results.
Immediate Dentures
In most cases, immediate dentures are placed immediately following the removal or extraction of the existing teeth. While this can be an excellent solution for some, not all patients are good candidate for immediate dentures.
Implant-supported Dentures
Implant-supported dentures use one or more dental implants to support the denture. This solution offers patient an extremely strong and secure foundation and ensures the denture remains securely in place. Dental implants are quite reliable and when properly cared for, last for many years.
Snap-in Dentures
In terms of stability, snap-in dentures are arguably the most effective solution. This form of dentures use dental implants or anchors on the existing teeth to securely hold the dentures in place. This solution is unique because the locator attachments are embedded into the tissue side of the denture. The locator attachments snap or connect to the implants or the locator receptors. This allows the dentures to be conveniently removed as needed, similar to partial dentures. Snap-in dentures are often used when patients are missing all of their teeth, but have adequate bone required to support implants.
Overdentures
Overdentures sit on top of the gums and are secured in place using dental implants. They can be used for both the upper and/or the lower jaw. Overdentures can also be removed.
Upper Dentures
Just as the name suggests, upper dentures are dentures used exclusively for the upper teeth. They are an excellent solution for patients who are missing some of all of their teeth in the upper jaw.
Economy Dentures
Economy dentures are a cost-effective denture which can be used. They are generic, meaning they typically do not fit securely in the mouth and are not comfortable to wear. They often look fake as they are a “one size fits all” solution. A denture adhesive is required to secure the dentures in place.
While dentures can be a good solution for some patients, they can also come with challenges and limitations. Dentures can be uncomfortable, make patients feel older, and require dietary limitations. Ill-fitting dentures can also make it difficult for patients to speak clearly. They also require nightly removal for cleaning. The following are some of the most popular alternative solutions for patients who do not want to use dentures for their tooth-replacement needs.
Denture Alternatives
The most common denture alternatives include dental implants, overdentures, and dental bridges. These tooth-replacement solutions can be used for patients who have good oral health, strong jawbone density, and a specific a number of missing teeth.
Dental Implants
Dental implants are a relatively new tooth-replacement option and are considered to be the most effective alternative to dentures. Dental implants are made from titanium and are incredibly secure. The implant is surgically placed into the jawbone and serves as an anchor for the crown. Once the implant is placed, patients must wait about 3-6 months for the implants to fuse with the jawbone through a process called osseointegration.
Dental implants are extremely durable. They appear and function just like the natural teeth. When they are properly cared for, dental implants can last a lifetime. Dental implants cannot be removed, which means they do not require dietary restrictions and do not make it difficult to speak. Patients must have healthy gums and an adequate amount of jawbone in order to qualify as a candidate for implants. Perhaps the one downside associated with dental implants is that they are one of the most expensive tooth-replacement options.
Dental Bridges
Dental bridges are often recommended for patients who are missing just one tooth. A dental bridge is a prosthetic tooth which is secured with crowns or dental implants on either side. One disadvantage associated with a dental bridge is that the dentist must remove healthy tooth from the adjacent teeth prior to placing the crowns. Dental bridges are an excellent denture alternative as they do not slip during routine use and securely remain in place.
Fortunately, there are numerous options which can provide patients with excellent results when they are missing a tooth. While some patients are perfectly happy with dentures, other patients want to pursue other options. Dental implants, overdentures, and crowns are just some of the alternatives to dentures which can be used to restore a patient’s smile after tooth loss.
Patients who are missing teeth should follow up with a local dentist to discuss their tooth-replacement options and begin treatment. Their smile and confidence can be restored in little to no time.