Introduction
Anyone whose one or more teeth are missing in the upper or lower arch can be replaced with the required number of artificial teeth.
These are of different types, such as dental crowns and dentures. It is further divided into fixed and removable types.
As the name goes, the fixed replaced teeth stay attached with the help of certain treatment processes, and in the case of the removable prosthesis, the artificial teeth can be removed as and when required and indicated. We shall discuss in brief and know about each one of them in this blog.
Dentures
Artificial teeth in the form of dentures are divided into –
- Fixed – These are fitted and bonded well with strong dental cement. Fixed dentures can replace a single tooth or multiple teeth and refill the missing space, contributing to artificial teeth. For replacing the single tooth, fixed artificial teeth can be fabricated to support a tooth when it is structurally weak or when a root canal is treated. These are basically in the form of a bridge, which takes the support of the side teeth and makes a unit. Here, artificial teeth can be made of different types of materials like metal, metal ceramic, or ceramic. It makes the most accepted form of artificial teeth as it is fixed and provides both strength and aesthetics.
- Removable – also replace the missing teeth, which are mostly made up of acrylic or resin. It contains the required number of artificial teeth to be set, and they are made in the denture accordingly. It should be removed by the patients during the night and is supposed to be kept in a box filled with water after cleaning it well. It is again further classified into two types – Complete denture and partial denture.
A complete denture is a treatment when all the teeth are lost due to factors like cavities, tooth mobility, or age. In this, there are two sets of dentures, one for the upper arch and one for the lower arch.
It is a multi-visit process where impressions are taken, the bite is adjusted, and the patient’s smile is taken into consideration once the artificial teeth are set.
Fixing the missing space with a removable denture is also one of the most economical methods of getting artificial teeth.
Conventional removal dentures generally have wires attached to them to provide stability. Newer types of dentures have come up, which are flexible, made of durable material, and very comfortable to wear.
It also has additional features in it, as its base also resembles the colour of gums, which makes it even more good-looking.
Flexible dentures can be considered as a good choice of artificial teeth replacement when indicated, as they provide good longevity.
Artificial teeth with dental implants –
Replacing teeth with a dental implant is a surgical procedure and requires about 3-6 months for the teeth to be replaced.
A dental implant is like a screw, and it is surgically placed in the jawbone after all the diagnosis and essential investigations are done.
An artificial tooth is placed on the top of the implant after the bone in the concerned region has healed well and becomes fully compatible with the implant. Regular follow-ups are done, and X-rays are taken after the dental implant is placed.
In these appointments, it is ensured that everything is in place, and then, during the estimated time, the dentist fills in the missing space with artificial teeth after checking the fit, bite, and colour of the prosthesis. There is a connector which connects the dental implant and provides support to the artificial teeth.
The most common advantage that has been seen with dental implants is that they replace the root of the tooth, which imparts strength to the artificial teeth.
When pressure is applied on the artificial teeth, it is distributed in a very balanced way. This makes dental implants a long-lasting replacement. Though it has its own indications and limitations, it offers good results and prognosis.
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Conclusion
Missing teeth have a lot of disadvantages associated with them. When a tooth is not there for a long time, its surrounding and opposing teeth start to drift as they see an open space.
The movement of the teeth from their original place makes them loose, and they might come off. Therefore, it is very important that if you see any missing tooth, you consult a dentist and know all the suitable treatment options for replacement.
Artificial teeth replacement is one of the most common treatment processes dentists use. There are different expenses for different treatment options of replacement.
Your dentist will be the best person to guide you on what is best for you, and you can take your call depending on your budget.
It is very important to keep the overall health, strength, integrity, and aesthetics of your teeth in mind while deciding which form of artificial teeth you would like to choose.
