Dental Prostheses what are they?

Dental Prostheses – What Are They?

As we get older, our bodies change. We start to feel achy, our limbs stiffen, wrinkles show up on our faces and we seem to have less strength. This also applies to our teeth – they become weaker and more prone to cracks, the enamel thins and discoloration becomes a problem.

When your teeth are chipped or missing, you may consider dental prosthesis. A prosthesis is a custom-made dental appliance created to cover up defects or replace missing teeth. There are several types of prostheses available: crowns, bridges, dentures, veneers and implants. They can be either permanent or removable.

Kinds of Prostheses

There are many options when it comes to picking a dental prosthesis, depending on your individual needs. To choose the right appliance for you, it helps to understand what each type does. There are four main kinds of prostheses. They include:

  • Crowns – cover a single damaged tooth or form a part of a bridge. They can be mounted on each side of one (or more) false teeth.
  • Implants – these dental appliances are attached to the bone of the jaw just like the root of a tooth. They can replace one, a few or a whole row of teeth.
  • Dentures – replace either a few false teeth or entire row (partial vs. full dentures).
  • Veneers- shells that cover damaged or discolored teeth to improve their apperance.

If you think that a dental prosthesis is a right option for you, talk to your dentist or prosthodontist. They can help you make the right choice and answer all questions you might have. Don’t wait to improve your smile. Call to schedule an appointment today!

Making a Dental Prosthesis

The process of making a dental prosthesis is multi-step and can take a few weeks. Here’s what you can expect:

  • First, your dentist will perform a thorough examination of your teeth and gums. They will then take dental X-rays of the affected teeth. Their goal is to provide you with a prosthesis that will support your natural teeth, and allow you to eat and speak comfortably, while also being aesthetically pleasing.
  • Next, your dentist will need to take an impression of your existing teeth. You will have to bite into a mold that will later be sent to a dental lab.
  • Prostheses are usually created in dental labs. They can be made from various materials: porcelain, composite resin (you can check here for diy wakesurf board), acrylic or zirconia.
  • Once your device is made, it’s ready to be placed inside your mouth. The mounting process depends on the type of prostheses you’re receiving. If it’s a crown, a bridge or veneers, your dentist may prepare the surface of your tooth by removing or etching a part of it. To ensure a snug and comfortable fit, dentures need to be checked. And before attaching implants, the dentist surgically inserts a titanium post into your bone. After a few months, the prosthetic can be placed and secured.

Although the process of making and implanting a dental prosthesis can be long, it is most definitely worth it. Dental prostheses can help you feel more confident while restoring your oral health.

Advantages of Dental Prostheses

Having a dental prosthesis can be very beneficial to your overall health. Here are just a few of the benefits of installing dental appliances:

  • They give you self confidence. No more feeling embarrassed because of missing, discolored or damaged teeth.
  • They improve your smile. Dental prostheses are visually appealing and can positively impact your appearance.
  • They help you eat and talk. Thanks to dental appliances you will be able to enjoy a greater variety of foods. In addition, patients who experience difficulties with speech due to missing teeth, solve their problems with dental prostheses.
  • They affect your overall oral health. Replacing missing teeth prevents the remaining teeth from misaligning.

Prostheses Cost

The cost of your dental prostheses will largely depend on several factors: the type of device being installed, the placement of the appliance, the dentist performing the procedure, patient’s overall condition, anesthesia options and your insurance coverage. Check This Out, if you’re interested in receiving a dental prosthesis so that your dentist can help you determine the final cost as well as suggest payment options.

Here are some examples of prices of various dental prosthesis:

    • Crowns: anywhere from $500 to $3,000 per tooth
    • Dental Implants: $1,000 – $3,000 per implant
    • Partial Dentures: $500 – $1,800
    • Full Dentures: $1,000 – $8,000
    • Veneers: $250 – $2,500 per tooth

Contact Smiles in Shelby Today!

If you are interested in discussing dental prostheses further, or have any other questions, reach out to Smiles in Shelby today. We are here to answer any questions you may have, and we’ll gladly schedule an appointment with you.

If you don’t have a periodic cleaning/check-up appointment yet, contact us today, too. Remember—if you take good care of your oral health now, you may be able to avoid having dental prostheses later!

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