Traditional dentistry can provide replacements for missing teeth using bridges, removable partials and dentures. However each of them has their specific limitations. and consequences.
Bridge
This kind of replacement is very cosmetic and long-lasting.
It is the construction consisting of at least two crowns joined by one or more false teeth replacing the missing ones. Bridgework usually involves altering natural teeth ( reducing a certain amount of tissue) to provide a stable
foundation to support replacement teeth. Bridge can be done with metal faced with porcelain or all-ceramic. It is made in laboratory and fixed by cementing in the mouth. It is not removable.
Adhesive bridge
In some cases an alternative to classic bridge is an adhesive one. The false tooth is hanging on the fibre-glass splint or metal wings and bonded to the neighbour teeth after its slight drilling. This is a very good solution for 4-5-years period, especially for those who prepare themselves for implants.
Partial denture
In the case there is a big number of missing teeth and there are no conditions in the mouth to employ other methods, there is a possibility to use a classic and verified partial denture.
This is a removable plate with the number of false teeth on it. It may be plastic or a mixture metal and plastic. Both types may have clips to help keep the denture in place in the mouth. Depending on their location, some of these clips may show when you smile or open your mouth. Dentures made of elastic material do not have such clips. Partial dentures can, sometimes, be very unstable leading to denture sores or speech difficulties. They should be treated as a long lasting temporary solution.
Implants
The best way to replace the missing teeth are implants (titanium cylinders placed into the jawbone to support replacement teeth). They allow replacing one tooth as well as number of them. For example, using 2 or 4 implants you can have again all missing teeth in you jaw.
Dental implants are usually completed in two phases. During the first one the surgeon places the implant / implants into the jawbone, using local anaesthesia. There should be at least two control visits after surgery: the first one in ten days, connected with removal of the sutures, and the second one in one month to control the process of healing. Then, after 3-6 months (time necessary for proper osseointegration) your dentist is able to make a prosthetic work on it
them.
In some cases there is also possibility to employ immediate loading treatment. That means you can have a crown or denture just after surgery. But it is always temporary solution which should be changed for permanent one after the period of healing.
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