Alternatives to Traditional Dentures

In some cases, traditional full dentures are not the best solution for someone with missing or damaged teeth. If you have been missing teeth and delayed getting dentures for too long, the bony ridge may shrink, not leaving enough space on your gums for a removable denture to fit. This also may happen to someone who has been wearing dentures for a while.

Dental Implants

• Implants are a hygienic, permanent and realistic-looking replacement for missing teeth. They require the same day-to-day cleaning as regular teeth, making them much easier to maintain than removable dentures. They are more costly than dentures, and slightly more susceptible to cracking than regular teeth, so be cautious when chewing hard foods.

  A dentist screws the teeth implants into a prosthetic post, generally made of titanium, which is drilled into the jawbone. The prosthetic teeth are made of composite resin and look like regular teeth. If the teeth crack or get worn down, a dentist can replace them by screwing new teeth into the titanium posts.

Porcelain Veneers

• If you have badly chipped, fractured, worn or stained teeth in the front of your mouth, a dentist can permanently bond porcelain veneers to the front of your teeth. This will give the teeth added strength while restoring their appearance.

Partial Dentures and Bridges

• Rather than taking out all of your teeth and replacing them with full dentures, you can use partial dentures which attach to the existing teeth with clasps. Bridges are similar, but cemented between your natural teeth. These feel better than full dentures and allow you to keep natural teeth that are in good condition.