Dentures in Odessa are the fastest, easiest way to replace multiple missing teeth all at once. This is true whether you choose partial or full dentures. You may also want to consider implant-supported dentures, which avoid the need for adhesive creams and metal clasps. Your dentist can give you more information during your upcoming appointment.
A Time-Tested Solution to a Common Problem
Studies show that over 80 million Americans are struggling with some form of tooth loss. Left untreated, this problem can lead to a lifetime of poor health, not to mention social awkwardness and loss of self-esteem. Your teeth are essential for eating a healthy diet, speaking clearly, and enjoying positive face-to-face interactions.
Dentures are an affordable, effective way to regain much of what time and circumstances have taken away. They allow you to enjoy a well-rounded diet, speak more clearly, and step out into the world with greater confidence. They come in three forms:
- Full dentures: these are used to restore an entire row, or arch, of teeth all at once. They’re a good option when all of the natural teeth on an arch have been lost or those that remain are in poor health.
- Partial dentures: these are a good option for patients who retain a significant number of healthy natural teeth. They’re designed to fit around the gaps in the patient’s smile. Partial dentures are held in place by metal fixtures. Your dentist may recommend adding crowns to your remaining teeth to help hold the restoration securely in place.
- Implant-supported dentures: this is a special advanced form of smile restoration that uses small titanium fixtures embedded underneath the patient’s gumline. The fixtures, or implants, act much like the roots of healthy natural teeth. Unlike adhesive dentures, implants cannot come loose accidentally.
Which Type of Denture is Right for Me?
Your dentist will work with you to determine the best type of denture for your needs. Some of the factors to consider in recommending a specific form of denture restoration include:
- The condition of the remaining teeth: patients with a significant number of healthy remaining teeth are often best served by a partial denture. Those with extensive restorative needs may require a more comprehensive approach.
- The patient’s overall health: this is especially important when it comes to choosing between traditional adhesive dentures and an implant-supported option. Implants require sufficiency amounts of healthy underlying bone. If this is not the case, then bone grafts may be needed.
- The patient’s personal priorities: some people are comfortable with wearing adhesive dentures and foresee no major impact on their lifestyle. Others worry about the limitations of traditional products and are curious about the benefits of implants. It’s important to remember that implants require dental surgery for the placement of the fixtures. The patient must be healthy enough to undergo the procedure.
As you can see, you have a number of options when it comes to dentures. Talk to your dentist about your choices during your upcoming appointment. You’ll soon be on your way to brighter smiles and better days.
About the Author
Dr. Franklin Russell Boyles has been practicing dentistry for more than 40 years. A member of the American Dental Association (ADA), he has been voted one of the best dentists in the Permian Basin multiple times. You can reach his office online or by calling (432) 366-0896.