If you lose one or more teeth, you might experience difficulties with your typical oral functions, including chewing and speaking. These concerns may worsen without restorative treatment from your dental professional.
Dentures can replace missing teeth, and your dentist can help you find the best kind of device to suit your unique dental needs. Dr. Denise Halliburton, a dentist practicing in Ellicott City, MD, describes three types of dentures that can restore patients’ smiles after tooth loss.
Partial Dentures
If you are missing several teeth in a row, then partial dentures could be the ideal tooth replacement solution for you. These fixtures consist of custom-made prosthetic teeth attached to an acrylic base. A metal framework secures the device to surrounding remaining teeth and holds it in place.
Dentures provide a more affordable restorative treatment than dental implants. Some dental patients appreciate the ability to remove dentures, relieving pressure in their mouths when they are not in use.
Removable Full Dentures
If you want to replace an entire arch of teeth, your dentist may provide you with removable full dentures. You can receive this type of tooth replacement on either the top or bottom arch, though some patients may get dentures for both if needed.
Patients can chew and speak normally with dentures in place, though these devices utilize specific adhesives in order to remain secure in the mouth. They require cleaning and maintenance as well and usually last for five years before needing replacement.
Implant-Secured Dentures
For permanent teeth replacement, many patients choose implant-secured dentures. With this type of treatment, a dentist surgically places anchors into a patient’s jaw which will support a prosthetic arch of teeth.
Though the implant process may take some time to heal, the result is a lifetime of restorative benefits without concern of slippage or maintenance. Implants also treat bone loss in the jaw, which may occur in patients with missing teeth. This is because the anchor replaces an absent tooth root, stimulating the jaw and keeping it healthy.
Dentures and Other Teeth Replacements in Ellicott City, MD
Halliburton Family Dentistry provides dentures and other tooth replacement solutions to patients in Ellicott City, MD. Dr. Halliburton specializes in restorative, cosmetic, and general dentistry for patients of all ages. To schedule an appointment or consultation with our practice, contact us online or reach our office by phone at 443.232.0656.