Prosthetic dentistry is a recent field of dentistry that has been developed to replace missing teeth. A dentist may use dental implants, crowns, dentures or soft tissue transplants to restore the oral health and function of patients who have lost their natural teeth through injury or disease. In many cases, prosthesis-based services also provide an opportunity for reconstructive surgery that can help both the aesthetic and functional aspects of a patient's smile. Read on to find out more.
Implants
Dental implants are a more permanent means of replacing a missing tooth. They anchor into the jawbone and provide a foundation for dental prosthetics. In some cases, root canals may be required to allow an implant to attach more securely. One common form of implant is the screw-like prosthesis that is commonly used for single missing teeth or in combination with crowns or bridges when multiple teeth are missing.
Crowns
Similar in function to implants, crowns provide a foundation and support system for replacement dentures and other dental appliances. While implants anchor into the jawbone, crowns are made to fit around the top of a tooth, acting as artificial teeth without piercing or disturbing the natural bone structure. Since they are made to fit around a tooth, crowns usually have a slightly different shape than natural teeth. They are often more decorative than functional, so dental patients who need replacement appliances may be able to use them as an attractive accessory.
Dentures
Dentures are an alternative to implants and crowns that provide an opportunity to use removable prosthetics. They are thin pieces of acrylic fitted with artificial teeth that can be worn in the front of the mouth or along the entire gum line. They are usually held in place by dental adhesive. Dentures can be used to replace one tooth at a time or an entire row of teeth depending on the extent of the damage.
Soft tissue transplant
Soft tissue transplant is a procedure that can be used to repair the damage done to soft tissues of the mouth. Injuries to the gums often require a surgical procedure of this kind to restore normal function and appearance. Soft tissue transplant can also be used as part of reconstructive surgery for those who have lost their teeth from disease or injury.
If you would like further info and advice, you should contact a local dentist today. They will be happy to book you in for an assessment.
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