Dentures, Bridges, Implants. Which Is Right For You?

Dentures, Bridges, Implants. Which Is Right For You?

Barotz Dental | September 21, 2015

A smile is a beautiful thing. It can create a feeling of connection and bring happiness to the heart of the one giving it. For some, though, smiling is uncomfortable, even embarrassing because of crooked or missing teeth due to injury or disease.
If smiling is no longer the happy experience it once was, if your mouth remains closed in public settings and you feel self-conscious, know that there are methods that can restore your confidence and end the embarrassment.

Treatment Options

There are a number of factors to consider, including number of teeth missing, gum condition and underlying bone structure. Dr. Barotz will review these issues with you, and together you will develop your treatment plan.
Dentures, bridges, implants  or a combination of treatments are the common choices for replacing missing teeth. All aforementioned options are used in filling the gaps that may inhibit your healthy smile.

Dental Implants:

Implants are often the best choice for tooth replacement. Here’s why:
• They are easily sized and colored to match your natural teeth
• Function like natural teeth
• Strong, durable and provide a solid base for chewing
• Do not damage adjacent teeth
• Promote gum and bone health
• With good oral hygiene high quality implants can last a lifetime
• Often used to provide a solid anchor for bridges or dentures
• Reduce the possibility of gum disease and bone loss due to slippage and gaps under bridges and dentures

Dental Bridges:

In some cases, dental bridges are a viable solution for missing teeth, albeit they are not as permanent as implants. Some things to know about bridges:
• They are artificial teeth that rest on top of the gum and are anchored to adjacent teeth
• The adjacent teeth receive crowns that form the anchor for the bridge
• Available in metal alloy or porcelain. Porcelain may be colored to match natural teeth
• Sometimes used in combination with implants when there are a number of missing teeth to replace
• Since dental bridges rest on the gum, underlying tissue and bone may deteriorate from lack of stimulation. The bridge may slip or become uncomfortable over time
• With good care, dental bridges can last for many years

Dentures:

Dentures are used to replace a large number of teeth. At one time, dentures were the traditional treatment for tooth replacement but now implants have superseded them as the preferred method. If dentures seem right for you, here are some things you will want to consider:
•Dentures support facial muscles and restore your smile
• Underlying gums and jawbone lack the stimulation to remain healthy
• Bone loss, receding gums and change in facial contours are common in denture wearers
• Dentures require periodic realigns or replacement

The First Step

The first step towards your newly restored smile is to meet with leading cosmetic dentist, Dr. Charles Barotz. Known for his friendly, caring and gentle dentistry, Dr. Barotz will take the time to understand your concerns.
Using his 35 plus years of experience and skill in general and cosmetic dentistry, he will work with you, to establish a treatment plan that will bring the smile back to your face.
Whether it’s dentures, bridges, implants or a combination of treatments, a simple call to Dr. Barotz will begin the process of restoring your oral health while giving you a drop dead gorgeous smile!