During your consultation and following your smile exam with Dr. Polizois, he will lay out the various options to restore your smile. These options include the different materials, cost, and the best denture for your unique oral health profile.
If you have had difficulty wearing dentures in the past, Dr. Polizois may recommend implant-supported dentures in Annapolis, MD.
Implant-supported dentures, like the All-on-4® treatment concept, represent a more permanent solution to tooth loss. In this case, your denture is affixed to your gum using a few dental implants.
Dental implants are thin titanium posts that Dr. Polizois surgically implants into your gum. A few strategically placed posts are strong enough to support an entire denture, increase your chewing force, and contribute to better digestive health.
Implant-supported dentures also decrease bone loss in your jaw because implant posts help stave off bone shrinkage, which is common when teeth are missing. Bone loss can give your face a sunken and aged appearance.
Other benefits of implant-supported dentures include:
- No slippage when eating or speaking
- No realigns in our dental office
- No messy adhesives
- Better digestion through better chewing
- A beautiful, natural-looking smile
Our compassionate team will also keep you relaxed and comfortable during the implant process. We offer nitrous oxide for relaxation or oral sedation if you are feeling especially anxious. We also provide neck pillows and blankets to make you feel at home. The implant process is not particularly painful, and swelling or mild discomfort usually dissipates in a day or two. Most patients rely on an over-the-counter pain reliever like Ibuprofen during the first days following implant placement, and this is generally sufficient.
Are partial dentures similar to a dental bridge?
Partial dentures in Annapolis, MD are similar to dental bridges, but there are critical differences between these two restoration choices.
Partial dentures in Annapolis, MD are an arch of restoration teeth. These teeth fit the spaces where teeth are missing to complete your smile. They rely on clips and the support of healthy teeth to stay in place. Partial dentures are removable for cleaning and when sleeping.
Dental bridges are artificial teeth suspended between dental crowns. The dental crowns attach to healthy teeth on either side of your smile gap, and the restoration teeth fill the empty spaces between the capped teeth. Dental bridges are not removable and generally require a special floss threader and small toothbrush for cleaning.
Partial dentures and dental bridges are time-tested, tooth-replacement options. Ask Dr. Polizois which one is a better option for you.
How do I know if I need a new denture?
If your dentures have cracks or signs of wear, it may be time to consider a new denture in Annapolis. A crack can advance quickly to breakage, which can create an embarrassing situation.
Also, when teeth are missing jawbones shrink. If you notice that your denture is slipping, you’re always in need of a realign, or you’re applying adhesive throughout the day, you may consider an exam in Annapolis to discuss your options for a new denture.