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MISSING TEETH:
BRIDGES, DENTURES & IMPLANTS
Missing teeth can be replaced by removable dentures,
a bridge, or an implant. Each case is different and is discussed
with the patient.
Bridges
A bridge is a fixed appliance that replaces missing
teeth or small dentures by being secured to adjacent natural
teeth. There are a number of different methods and materials,
but mostly treatment is completed in a couple of visits.
Below are before and after photos of a lady aged about 60 here
at our Devizes dental practice who had been unable to smile
with her very old denture (replacing the two upper front teeth)
surrounded by disintegrating natural teeth. Following discussion,
she opted not to have a denture and we provided crown and bridgework
to not only replace the missing two teeth but vastly improve
her appearance.
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of life as well as new teeth. |
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Dentures
Convincingly natural dentures are possible. Sometimes a denture
is the best answer for a particular individual. The pros and
cons are discussed with you. We will discuss your options. You
then decide.
Many patients, when asked if keeping teeth is important to them,
confirm that it is. In our Wiltshire dental practice we try
to help you avoid dentures if that is in your best interests.
We will always take careful note of what our patients tell us
about the denture problems (appearance, function, speech) that
they may have had in the past, so that we can attempt an improvement
in the replacement appliance(s). Different options are usually
available and a full discussion initially is always best for
both patient and dentist. As you would expect, we use high quality
methods, materials and experienced technicians to produce blended
natural results. Both of us want the satisfaction of teeth that
are unquestionably "yours" and unremarkable for other
people.
Implants
An implant is a device that is placed where a tooth was, and
is, in effect, a replacement root. The implant and the bone
fuse in a process called osseointegration. Once integrated,
a tooth (or teeth) is secured to the implant to provide a result
that is both aesthetic and long lasting.
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Left:
Comparing natural tooth to a typical implant.
Right: Implant components, from base up:
Fixture, abutment, crown. |
Implants offer a very predictable treatment and give success
rates that are the best in dentistry today. Indeed, if cared
for, the implants, like teeth, should last for life.
If we agree that implants may be the way forward for a patient,
then we advise that they are treated by a practitioner with
a special interest in implantology.
A CASE COMPLETED BY
OUR REFERRAL PRACTITIONER
Before:
The central incisor was infected and could not be saved.
Patient did not want a denture.
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After:
The tooth was extracted and an implant placed. Once integrated,
a crown was secured to the implant giving a good appearance
with a healthy gum above. |
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Implants are provided on referral to a trusted and experienced
colleague who works in cooperation with the Practice. As with
other referrals, the patient returns to this Practice following
treatment.
Online
leaflets: If you want general information on
a condition or treatment, go to the British
Dental Health Foundation's web site where they
have over 40 online leaflets.
Online Resource: Want to find out about dental
treatment? Want to know how to look after your teeth
better? Visit the new BDA
Smile web site.
3D Education:
Learn about dental anatomy, conditions, treatments
and good oral health with the BDA's cutting edge 3D Educational
web site. |
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