Upper False Teeth Options
Having missing teeth can lead to feelings of sadness, lack of self confidence, and esteem issues. We want to feel whole, and smile big, but having fractured or missing teeth can make us feel incomplete. We may miss out on some of our favorite foods, because we are scared of the mastication issues that may arise. We may remain stern-faced in our happiest moments and pictures, for fear of documenting our smile. There is no reason to spend your life eating applesauce though, because modern dentistry has a suite of options for replacing your teeth. Dentures, partial dentures, implants, snap-on dentures, overdentures, and bridges are all options that should make you smile, and not be ashamed to.
Crowns and Caps
If the teeth you are replacing still have a decently strong foundation, you can attach a crown or cap, even a tooth-bridge, depending on your Dentist’s advice. The materials used can vary, but are typically very strong and can be made with porcelain layering to give a beautiful tooth-like appearance.
Dentures
Dentures are fitted ad adhered to the gums of your mouth after an entire row of teeth has been removed. For many, this is an option when almost all their teeth are gone, or their teeth are simple not strong enough anymore. Dentures can replace your entire upper teeth, or lower, and adhesives have come a long way. You no longer have to fear for them “popping out” while your laughing, or soaking them in a cup of water next to your bedside. Dentures gained an unfair mockery in movies and tv shows, when they are actually a perfectly normal and rational solution to a problem many people face every year. Dentures are applied 8-12 weeks after all teeth are removed in a row, this duration allows the gums time to heal and harden. Temporary dentures can be fitted and used immediately after teeth removal in some cases, but are expensive and can be painful. Consult with your Dentist and insurance for options.
Partial Dentures
Partial dentures are used when patients still have several healthy teeth on the top of their mouth, but the rest are gone. Partial dentures come with a gum-colored plastic piece that allows them to anchor in. They sort of act like a bridge, or a snap-on in that they allow the patient to chew and smile, while also keep their remaining teeth in place.
Dental Implants
Some patients find Dentures to be a step they are unwilling to take. Dentures carry social associations with age, poor health, growing old, even though this is not necessarily true. Whatever condition has lead a patient to losing most of their teeth, it is not something the patented intended, and no dentist or professional wants a patient to have to carry guilt or baggage around. Dental implants are another option. Dental implants can be made of any number of various materials, and are anchored into the jawbone with titanium fixtures. After the fixtures have set into the jaw, teeth-like crowns and implants can be attached. This is a great option if you have healthy gums and supportive bone underneath. Dental implants cannot be removed regularly, and are often made of durable materials. They can last a lifetime if properly cared for. Implants can also be made out of veneers or materials layered with porcelain to give you back your beautiful smile.
Overdentures or Snap-on Dentures
Similar to a partial denture and a dental implant. Overdentures and Snap-on dentures are anchored into your mouth via a dental implant. Once the implant has is set in the jaw, dentures may be designed to snap in to the implant. This is a great option for replacing upper row teeth, as long as you have the gum and bone structure to support implants. They are removable for cleaning, but secure enough in fitting for any of your daily activities.
Immediate Dentures
These can sometimes be temporary, and sometimes be long-lasting. It will depend on the health of your gums and jaw bones after tooth extraction. Immediate dentures can be fitted and used immediately after tooth removal. The gums after tooth removal are typically very sore and tender. So, make sure you overtly communicate and voice concerns with your dentist throughout the process.
Economy Dentures
These are kind of a “one-size-fits-all” denture. They do not look remarkably like real teeth, but they are suitable for use. They are an affordable option, which makes them relevant. Right now, it can be hard to match your needs with your coverage, depending on your insurance. Dentures, implants, any sort of intense dental work can end up costing you a little more than you would like, so to know there is another option out there is positive. They will still have to be adhered into your mouth using adhesive, but there will be an adjustment period as your mouth learn to use them. They will not be fitted, so you may experience gum or jaw pain early in your use. Talk with your Dentist about your options and what precautions you can take to make this option work.
Bridges
Bridges are a great option if you are only replacing a couple, or one, upper tooth. A bridge connects to crowns on either side of a missing tooth. In some cases, healthy tooth material may need to be removed to anchor the dental implant material. The bridge will be fitted and secured with a false tooth in place of the missing one(s). This is a durable and sturdy option to assist your chewing, and give you back a little confidence.
Consult with your Dental professional
Dentistry is a science, and science is always innovating. By the time you have finished reading this, we may have 10 more ways to replace upper false teeth. No matter what the situation that has brought you here, we can find a solution. You do not need to go through life feeling less-than or incomplete. Talk to someone who knows teeth and dental procedures inside out, and discuss your options with them. Call you insurance and discuss coverage options for the procedures you would like to explore. Moreover, take pride and autonomy in yourself and this process, you are helping to shape the way you will conquer this issue.