Alternatives to Partial Dentures

Many wonder if there are any alternatives to partial dentures when they have missing and/or damaged teeth. Thanks to modern science, the answer is yes! For those who have had missing teeth for a long time, the bony gum ridge may have shrunk so much that a denture cannot fit there. Or, some just don't want to deal with the care and expense of dentures. For these people, there is the option of denture implants, porcelain veneers, crowns, or denture bridges as an alternative.

Denture Implants

• If teeth are missing, denture implants may be the way to go. This procedure is done by placing a titanium rod into the boney ridge with the tip of the rod slightly above the gum line. Titanium is conducive to the bone tissue as it easily grows into it, binding the rod, and creating a secure mount for the dentures. Once the gums heal and no swelling remains, the implants can be mounted on the rod post at the proper height for the individual.

Porcelain Veneers

• For someone who has damaged, but not missing teeth, porcelain veneers may be a great option. When teeth are stained, chipped or fractured, a porcelain veneer will reinstate the cosmetic attractiveness while adding an extra layer of strength to the teeth. Veneers are razor thin pieces of porcelain that have been molded to fit each tooth. They are cemented to the front, covering up the damage to the tooth. Because porcelain veneers are mainly used for aesthetic purposes, they are bonded to teeth at the front of the mouth only.

Crowns and Denture Bridges

• Crowns and even denture bridges may be suitable to those who don't want partial dentures. Once a tooth has been repaired, a crown is placed over that tooth. The patient has the option of choosing whether they want noble metal or high noble metal. These are both alloys containing gold, palladium or platinum. High noble metal contains a minimum 40 percent gold while noble metal contains about 25 percent gold. High noble metal crowns are a little more expensive because of the gold content. Gold tends to fit the natural tooth easily, it is durable, non-abrasive, and is the best metal for gum tissue health. Noble metal crowns are slightly less expensive and are still a strong, durable option for teeth.

  Denture bridges are comparable to partial dentures, however, it is cemented in between the natural teeth. They have a more comfortable, natural feel than dentures do.