Can you imagine a life without teeth? For many Americans, this is their reality. The CDC estimates that 13% of Americans between 65 and 74 years old have no teeth. Living without teeth not only brings inconvenience, but it can also affect how you feel about yourself. Luckily, a prosthodontist in Boca Raton can help fix the problem.
Prosthodontics can restore your smile and oral function, whether you’ve lost your teeth due to tooth decay or advanced-stage gum disease.
A prosthodontist is a dentist specializing in performing more complex procedures in restoring and replacing missing teeth. In addition to four years of dental school, they underwent three more years of extensive training. They are abreast with the latest innovations and technologies in tooth restoration and aim to educate patients on factors contributing to tooth loss.
Your prosthodontist will evaluate your mouth and have a thorough discussion with you to learn about what you wish to achieve. Based on the consultation, your prosthodontist can offer solutions that fit your needs. The following are examples of prosthetic options:
A dental crown is a hollow cap that your prosthodontist will use to encase a damaged tooth to restore its appeal, strength, size, and shape. The crown only fully covers the visible part of your tooth above the gum line and does not include the roots. Your prosthodontist may recommend a dental crown for the following reasons:
Dental crowns can be made from various materials like all metal, all ceramic, all resin, stainless steel, or porcelain-fused-to-metal.
For people interested in a permanent tooth replacement solution, prosthodontists may recommend dental implants. However, to qualify, you must meet the eligibility criteria for a successful surgery.
A strong and sufficient jawbone density is a prerequisite. Nevertheless, if you fail in this area, you can undergo bone grafting, a separate procedure, to restructure your jawbone to accommodate the implants.
Dental implants are screw-shaped metal rods inserted into your jawbone to replace the function of lost tooth roots. Attached to the implant is an abutment, and lastly, it will be topped off with an artificial crown or a dental bridge. Dental implant surgery boasts a 95%-98% success rate despite it being a surgical procedure.
When you have several missing teeth, you can get a dental bridge. A dental bridge looks and functions like real teeth. Once you have them, it will be as if you never lost your teeth. From its name, it bridges the gap left by missing teeth.
It can be made of artificial crowns or natural teeth on either side of the gap to support the pontics or false teeth. People who have lost their teeth due to injuries, periodontal disease, or tooth decay can get a dental bridge to preserve oral health. Talk to your prosthodontist if you qualify.
The additional years of training give prosthodontists a much higher level of expertise than general dentists in providing dental prosthetics. If you’re looking for a dental specialist to have your smile back, we’re here to help.
At 5th Avenue Dental, we offer a wide array of affordable restorative dental treatments to give you the smile of your dreams. Contact us today for a consultation.
A dental practice dedicated to your wellbeing. Welcome to your new home for comprehensive, high-quality dental care.
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