Partial Denture for One Missing Tooth
Missing a Tooth? Consider Partial Dentures
If you have a single missing tooth or need one tooth extracted, there are several replacement options available. One popular choice for many patients is a partial denture. These removable dental appliances attach to natural teeth and include a prosthetic tooth in pink resin to blend with the gums.
For those in Cedar Grove and the surrounding area, Cedar Grove Dental Group offers partial dentures for single missing teeth. To schedule an appointment to replace your missing tooth, please call us at (973) 857-0567.
Partial Removable Dentures
When a tooth is missing, the surrounding teeth will shift and fill in the empty space. This can cause uneven movement and make the situation worse. It can also make it harder to bite and chew without that missing tooth.
Replacing a missing tooth with a prosthetic can be a beneficial solution to maintain overall oral health. Having a complete set of teeth, whether natural or artificial, can also enhance a person's smile. Partial removable dentures are a tooth-replacement option that can be used for a single missing tooth instead of an implant or prosthetic.
"Replacing a missing tooth with a prosthetic can be a beneficial way to maintain overall oral health, tailored to the individual patient's needs."
Getting Partial Dentures Process
According to WebMD, a removable partial denture is custom-made to fit securely in the patient's mouth. Cedar Grove Dental Group takes impressions of the mouth to ensure a perfect fit before creating the denture. The final product is made of pink resin and prosthetic teeth.
While the partial denture may initially feel tight and uncomfortable, most patients adjust to it within a few weeks. It can assist with chewing but should be taken out before sleeping. Keeping the denture clean is crucial to prevent bacterial issues.
"WebMD explains that a removable partial denture is shaped to fit securely in the patient's mouth."
Pros and Cons of Partial Dentures for One Missing Tooth
Consider consulting with your dental professional before deciding to use a partial denture to replace a missing tooth. Factors such as oral health, ability to maintain dental hygiene, and individual circumstances should be taken into account when determining if a partial denture is the best option for you.
Pros:
- Costs less than implants
- Simple to adjust to
- Faster fabrication time
- Preserves proper teeth spacing
Cons:
- Initially uncomfortable
- Less durable than an implant or bridge
- May need occasional adjustments or repairs
If you are unsure about your best options, please reach out to our office to schedule an appointment today. Cedar Grove Dental Group can perform a thorough oral exam to create a personalized care plan for you.
"It is important to always seek advice from your dental professional before making a decision about replacing a tooth."
Additional Alternatives for Replacing a Single Missing Tooth
There are various options available for replacing a missing tooth, including partial dentures. The choice of treatment depends on the individual's specific situation and requirements.
- Implants. Dental implants are a long-term solution for missing teeth. They are placed in a patient's jaw by a dentist and false teeth are attached to them. Implants are very durable and may help prevent bone loss around a tooth extraction, according to the American Academy of Implant Dentistry. However, implant placement is more invasive than getting a partial denture and the final installation of the prosthetic tooth may take several months.
- Bridges. A dental bridge is made up of a group of crowns that attach to healthy teeth on either side of a gap. The healthy teeth that support the bridge need to be reduced to allow the crowns to go over them. Flossing between the three or more crowns that make up the bridge is not possible, and extra care is needed to clean under the pontic that fills the gap.
- Combination of solutions. For those without the necessary natural teeth, implant-supported bridges are an option. Similarly, implant-supported dentures can replace the entire upper arch, lower arch, or both for some people. While implants can last a long time with proper care, they can sometimes fail. Not every patient is a candidate for dental implants, as they require good overall health for healing and fusion to the jawbone.
