Missing and damaged teeth cause loss of teeth and confidence. It affects more than just aesthetics. Fortunately modern solutions provide an effective treatment that solves these issues. Dental prosthetic devices are one of them. These are used to replace missing teeth. They improve daily functioning and boost self-esteem
What is Dental Prosthetic?
The artificial devices used to replace missing, damaged, or cracked teeth to restore function and appearance are called dental prosthetics. They can replace a single tooth, multiple teeth, or an entire dental arch to restore both function and appearance. They mimic the appearance and function of natural teeth and enable the patient to chew, speak, and smile without difficulty. These can either be permanent or removable depending on the condition of the patients and their preferences
Who needs prosthetics?
Dental prosthetics are required in cases of individuals who have missing, weakened, or structurally compromised teeth. It may be caused by many factors and affects their oral health and overall health.
- Loss of or severely-damaged teeth
- Have major tooth decay or loss Of teeth
- Tooth loss due to trauma or injury
- Birth anomalies of the oral structure
- Desire for improved aesthetics and oral function
Types of Dental Prosthetics
Dental prosthetics have various types, and each of them has its own application. The dentists at Bel Air MD Dentist advise an effective choice that is suited to your condition.
Dental implants
Dental implants are used to replace missing teeth. These are made of titanium alloy, and their structure is like a screw and nut. They are surgically placed into the jawbone and act as roots for teeth. The roots are connected to the jawbone to provide support and stability to artificial teeth.
Dental Crowns
A dental crown is a customized cap fitted over a fractured or damaged tooth. It is used to restore the function, strength and appearance of the tooth. It fully covers the visible portion of the tooth and acts as a protective layer against further damage.
Dental Bridges
Dental appliances that are used to replace a lost tooth and fill the gap between two normal teeth are called dental bridges. Dental bridges consist of:
- Abutment teeth: The natural teeth that are located on both sides of gap and support the tooth bridge
- Implant: An Artificial tooth that fills a gap.
- Dental crowns: placed and fitted to the abutment teeth to hold the bridge.
Inlays and onlays
Inlays and onlays are custom dental restorations used to fix damaged or decayed teeth. These are more durable than fillings but less broad than crowns.
- Inlays are placed on the biting surface of the tooth.
- Onlays are used for extensive damage.
These are composed of the hardest materials, such as porcelain, resin, or gold and provide a robust and lifelong solution to problem and save more healthy tooth material as compared to normal crowns.
Dentures
False teeth are called dentures. These are fixed appliances and are used to fill in the gaps in the teeth and gum tissue. They are specifically made to fit comfortably. So, people can chew and talk and even smile without any problem. Dentures are useful in restoring the appearance and the oral functionality of an individual.
These can be categorized into two:
- Complete dentures: These are used when all the teeth are lost.
- Partial dentures: These are used to replace a few of the missing teeth and are usually held in place by a metal framework.
Dental Veneers
The dental veneers are thin, personalized shells and are bonded on the front surface of teeth to make them appear better. They are used to correct discolorations, cracks, chips, holes and irregular shapes.
- Porcelain veneers are strong and look like natural teeth.
- Composite veneers are less expensive but can stain easily.
The process entails tooth preparation, impression taking, and bonding. Veneers are common cosmetic solutions that are used to attain a whiter and better-looking for permanent aesthetic enhancement of the smile.
The Dental Prosthetic Procedure at Bel Air MD Dentist
The dentists at Bel Air MD Dentist guarantee an efficient and patient-focused process for obtaining a dental prosthetic.
Consultation: The dentist evaluates thoroughly, gets to know your goals, and prescribes proper prosthetic options.
Impressions and Imaging: A perfect fit is designed by digital scans or by taking actual molds.
Fabrication: The manufacturing of your prosthetic is done in a specialized lab. The reason many dentists use a fast-turnaround dental prosthetic lab to improve turnaround time is to maintain quality.
Fitting and Adjustment: After preparation, your dentist will fit the prosthetic and make necessary adjustments in order to suit it to your comfort and ability to use it.
Follow-Up: Check-ups and advice regarding cleaning, maintenance and lifespan are also part of aftercare.
Benefits of dental prosthetic devices
Dental prosthetics not only alter your smile but also improve overall quality of life. There are major advantages, such as
- Restore ability to chew and talk
- Better facial shape and beauty
- Improved confidence and quality of life
- Further oral damage prevention
- Long-term and permanent dental solution
Cost and Insurance
Dental prosthetic treatments are quite expensive and their price varies with different procedures and treatments. The cost also depends on the material used in prosthetic devices. Every prosthetic device has a different price.
- The average cost of porcelain veneers is $1700.
- The average cost of dental implants is $2500.
- The average cost of crowns & bridges is $2500.
Insurance covers some of the charges for the treatment of crowns, bridges, and partial dentures. But implants are not covered.
Quick fix dental prosthetic laboratory
It is a service model where prosthetic devices in dentistry can be produced and repaired by dental labs quickly. It is quick and effective service. These labs are only available at Bel Air MD Dentist and ensure that they consume less of your time and do not disturb your daily life. We offer same-day crowns and emergency denture repair services to offer you convenience and to give you peace of mind.
FAQs
Is a dental implant considered a prosthetic?
Yes, dental implant is a prosthetic device that is surgically placed in the jawbone and acts as a root of an artificial tooth. It is used to replace missing teeth.
Does all dental prosthetics cause speech distortion?
No, all prosthetics do not cause issues while speaking. Implants and crowns have little effect, but dentures can cause temporary speech changes.
How long do dental prosthetics last?
The lifespan of dental prosthetics can be 10 to 15 years by maintaining oral health.
Why do people with prosthetics need clearance before a dental visit?
Patients with prosthetics may require medical clearance to avoid infections or complications, particularly in the case of heart disorders or immunocompromised conditions, and allow safe dental care treatments.
