Despite the barrage of information people can find on how to look after and protect their teeth there are many people who continue to live with missing or broken teeth. Thankfully along with advancements in dentistry there are dental solutions available to those with problem or missing teeth ranging from veneers and crowns through to bridges, dentures and of course dental implants. In Richmond, here at Sheen Dental, we know that making the right dental choice can make a huge difference. With this in mind, let’s take a look at some of them.
Veneers
Not strictly an option for a missing tooth, a veneer is used to make good cracked, chipped and discoloured teeth. Usually made from dental porcelain they have a bright white look and fit over the surface of the existing tooth just like a shell. Once placed they typically have a shelf life of around 10 years.
Crowns
Having been around for many years they are still considered to be the number one solution for damaged teeth. Again not really an option for a missing tooth, they sit like a cap over a partially damaged or cracked tooth, however the tooth needs to have a healthy root. Ceramic crowns are also commonly used as an attachment for dental implants (which we’ll come to later).
Bridges
Bridges have been used for many years as a form of single tooth replacement and are just as popular today. The crown is made to look exactly like a real tooth and is supported by the adjacent teeth either side of the gap. The only down side is that in order to offer stability, the healthy adjacent teeth need to be ground down and shaped in order to support the bridging mechanism which in turn, supports the central crown.
Dentures
Dentures have been used in one form or another for hundreds of years and are ideal for those missing more than one tooth. Modern day dentures are lightweight, reasonably priced and comfortable and can last 10-15 years before needing to be replaced. There are downsides associated with dentures in that they do have to be regularly adjusted to match the changing shape of the jaw line and they rely on fixatives or glues to keep them in place.
Dental implants
Finally we come to the most expensive option and that’s dental implants. On average they cost 2-4 times the amount of other forms of tooth replacement, but when you consider that dental implants have so many advantages over their compatriots then it’s a cost that may be worth paying. They’ve been proven to last over 40 years in some patients, which far outweighs the longevity of any other form of tooth replacement. They’re anchored directly into the jaw bone meaning that they don’t rely on any other teeth, or fixatives to keep them in place. They’re also incredibly strong and durable so wearers can feel safe in the knowledge that they can eat what they want without fear of further dental problems.
So there you have it, a quick look at the different forms of tooth replacement available to you. If you want to find out more about dental implants in Richmond and how they can change your life, then contact Sheen Dental. Alternatively why not visit our website at www.sheendental.co.uk where you can find a while host of information on the subject.