Tooth loss can occur for a variety of reasons, including periodontal disease, impact trauma, and medical conditions. Whether you are missing one tooth or a whole arch of teeth, you can talk to your dentist about restorative solutions to replace your teeth.
For patients who hope to replace two full arches of teeth, there are several treatments that could suit their unique dental needs. Dr. Bradley Dean, a dentist in Plano, TX, describes three treatment options for patients seeking a replacement for all or most of their teeth.
Removable Dentures
Removable dentures are one option for patients who seek tooth replacement treatment. These fixtures feature a full set of prosthetic teeth with a base made of acrylic and metal.
This treatment can help patients enhance their smile after tooth loss and are relatively inexpensive to manufacture. However, this is not a permanent solution for missing teeth and can be a hassle to maintain. They also do not treat all potential dental risks that can occur after tooth loss, compared to other tooth replacement treatments.
Implant-Supported Dentures
Dentures can become a permanent fixture when supported with dental implants. This treatment involves your dentist surgically placing titanium posts into your jaw to create a stable and secure foundation for the appliance. Once this heals, your dentist will attach the denture prosthetic to the posts for a permanent fit.
These patients can notice restorative effects that patients with removable dentures will not, including preserving jawbone structure. The titanium posts replace the missing tooth root to stimulate the bone in the jaw and stop it from deteriorating.
All-on-Four Dental Implants
If too much jawbone deteriorates while a patient is missing teeth, their jaw may not be able to sustain the posts of an implant-supported denture. Some patients can receive a bone graft to add stability to the jaw and then get a successful dental implant.
This surgery is not always viable for dental patients, but individuals with missing teeth and low bone volume can still find an effective tooth replacement with the All-on-Four dental implant. By using only four titanium posts, the treatment requires less recovery time for patients without compromising restorative benefits.
All-on-Four and Other Teeth Replacements in Plano, TX
Dr. Dean offers All-on-Four dental implants and other tooth replacement solutions for patients in Plano, TX. Our practice also specializes in gum disease treatment and other periodontal services. To schedule an appointment with us, contact our office online or reach us by phone at 972.666.1594.