Dentures are a removable method of replacing missing teeth. They consist of a plate to which one or more porcelain artificial teeth are attached. The plate is usually made of acrylic, but sometimes contains a mix of metal and plastic. Though more expensive, dentures made of a plastic and metal mix are usually lighter and less likely to damage neighboring teeth. Like natural teeth, dentures need regularly cleaning. According to Dentures.org.uk, they should be removed at night, brushed and placed in cold water. They should be brushed again before placing them back in the mouth the following morning. Some people may not like the idea of dentures or may prefer a more permanent solution to tooth loss.
Dental Implants
According to the British Dental Health Foundation, dental implants are a tried and tested method of replacing missing teeth. Dental implants allow one tooth or many teeth to be replaced. During surgery performed under a local anaesthetic, the surgeon pushes a titanium screw into the jawbone. The screw is used to hold one or more false teeth. Normally the artificial teeth are not fitted until three to six months after the screw has been inserted into the jawbone because the screw needs to bond with the jawbone first. The British Dental Health Foundation notes that with proper care, more than 95 percent of implants last many years.
Dental Bridges
A dental bridge is a method or replacing one or two missing teeth. It consists of an artificial tooth made of porcelain and two crowns that anchor the false teeth to the neighboring natural teeth. Bridges are more permanent than dentures. They cannot be removed for cleaning because they are cemented in place. The Cosmetic Dentistry Guide notes that a dental bridge can last up to 15 years, providing proper dental hygiene is employed. It advises cleaning the false tooth and the small gap under the bridge daily to prevent decay, gum disease and bad breath.
Do Nothing
An individual who loses teeth might prefer to do nothing and leave a gap. While this is an option, the Cosmetic Dentistry Guide strongly advises against it. Leaving a gap puts strain on neighboring teeth and can cause them to lean, which will affect the bite. In addition, food can easily become lodged in the gap, increasing the potential for gum tissue and neighboring tooth decay. Missing teeth can also look unsightly and may make parts of the face appear sunken.
