Upper False Teeth Options
Having missing teeth has a direct impact on your smile, your appearance, and you sense of self-confidence. When you are missing almost all your teeth, the insecurity dramatically escalates. Traditionally most dentists have recommended dentures when many teeth are missing. Many people still experience insecurity about having dentures because it makes them feel older and they can be uncomfortable to wear while eating and speaking.
There are some alternatives to traditional dentures due to innovative technological advancements in the dental industry.
The Different Varieties of Dentures
Your dentist could recommend dental implants, overdentures, or dental bridges as suitable alternatives. They will help you explore your restoration options based on your current oral health, your jawbone density, and the number of missing teeth. With a thorough evaluation you will be able to make the best decision for your smile and your lifestyle.
The types of dentures:
* Traditional or conventional complete full dentures
* Partial dentures
* Custom dentures
* Immediate dentures
* Implant-supported dentures
* Snap-in dentures
* Overdentures
* Upper dentures
* Economy dentures
A Brief Description of the Various Options for False Teeth
* Traditional dentures- Complete dentures will replace all your teeth. They rest on top of the gums, as opposed to a dental bridge that is anchored to existing natural teeth. Complete dentures are usually placed within 8-12 weeks after the final teeth have been extracted.
* Partial dentures- Partial dentures are used when you still have some of your natural teeth, such as when a few teeth remain in the upper and lower jaw. The pink-colored base, holding the artificial teeth, has metal wings that can attach to the natural teeth.
They are both convenient and removable, which means you can take them out. Partial dentures will help to prevent the other teeth from moving and are made from acrylic material.
* Custom dentures- Custom dentures are fabricated with more expensive artificial teeth, which results in a healthier and more natural-looking smile. You can review the new denture before it is completed. The denture is specifically customized for your smile, so it is more natural looking.
* Immediate dentures- Immediate dentures are usually placed on the same day that the teeth are extracted. You need to be a suitable candidate for this type of denture.
* Implant supported dentures- With implant supported dentures, a dental implant is placed in the jawbone to securely support the denture. The implant provides a great amount of support for a stable foundation, which allows the denture to stay snuggly in place. The dental implant can last a lifetime.
* Snap-in dentures- Snap-in dentures are the most effective choice when it comes to stability. They are held securely in place by being attached to dental implants or anchors onto existing teeth.
What makes these dentures unique is the attachments embedded on the back side of the denture. The attachments snap onto the receptors on the implants. This makes them convenient and removable.
Snap-in dentures are an optimal choice if you do not have any teeth, but still have enough bone density to support a successful implant placement.
* Overdentures- An overdenture rests on top of the gums and but is secured in place with dental implants. It can be placed on the upper or lower jaw, depending on your needs. The overdenture is also removable.
* Upper dentures- Upper dentures are just that, dentures for the upper teeth. If you are missing teeth in your upper jaw, upper dentures might be the best solution for you.
* Economy dentures- Economy dentures are usually the most cost-effective type of denture. They are a generic denture, which means they will not fit securely or comfortably in your mouth, and they do not look natural. Denture adhesive is also needed for a secure fit.
Other Alternatives for False Teeth
Your dentist will need to patiently provide you with a thorough evaluation to offer the best solution options for your personal situation. Once the parameters are defined you can make an educated decision together. A few popular solutions today are.
* Dental Implants- The most popular and effective alternative to dentures is dental implants. Dental implants are tiny titanium posts that are surgically placed into your jawbone and function as artificial roots to anchor and hold your chosen restoration. After having the implants placed, you will need to wait several months for the implants to integrate, fuse and bond with the jawbone to ensure the successful stability of your replacement teeth.
The primary reason that dental implants have become the gold standard is because they are a more long-term and durable option. Dental implants can last a lifetime if you continue to exercise proper oral hygiene and take care of your restoration. Dental implants are fixed in place and are not removable, making them amazingly comfortable for your everyday activities such as eating and speaking. Dental implants function as artificial roots providing pressure stimulation to the jawbone maintaining the health of the bone. To qualify for dental implants, you must have both healthy gums and an adequate amount of supportive bone mass present. Dental implants replace missing teeth so you can smile with confidence.
* Dental Bridges- If you are missing only a few teeth your dentist may also recommend a dental bridge. A dental bridge is an artificial tooth held in place by crowns on the adjacent teeth of with dental implants. The downside to a traditional dental bridge is that the enamel surface of the two neighboring abutment teeth must be removed to place the crowns. Otherwise, a dental bridge can be a viable alternative to dentures. You will not have to worry about a dental bridge slipping while you smile, talk, or eat.
Consult with Your Dentist
If you are completely against getting traditional dentures for your missing teeth, there are alternatives for you to get your healthy smile back. Whether it be with dental implants or overdentures, there are several options to dentures available to make sure you are comfortable and confident with your new and improved smile. If you are missing multiple teeth but do not want to deal with the disadvantages of conventional dentures, talk to your dentist about what might be the best alternative for you, your teeth, and your lifestyle.