Types of Dental Prosthesis Devices

Modern dentistry is amazing because it offers patients multiple solutions that can repair damaged teeth or replace missing chompers. And dental prosthesis devices, in particular, can help you get your smile back, as well as help you speak and chew properly again. 

Whether you need to fix or replace a single tooth or multiple teeth, your dentist might recommend a customized dental prosthesis that’s removable or permanent. But what are your choices? Check out the list below to learn about some of the main types of dental prosthesis devices that are available. 

Dental prosthesis options

Dentures

Dentures might be what immediately come to mind when you think of products for replacing missing teeth. Designed to fit comfortably, this prosthesis will sit on the gums. And you can get partial dentures or full dentures, depending on how many teeth need to be replaced.  

Removable dentures can be taken out of the mouth to be cleaned daily. On the other hand, if you go with fixed partial or full dentures, they’ll remain in your mouth because they’ll be attached to implants that have been set in the jaw. Your dentist can help you weigh the pros and cons between these options, and can also determine which one would be better for you based on the health of your mouth.  

Dental Implant

Unlike dentures that can be taken out of the mouth, a dental implant is designed to function like a real tooth. How is that possible? Basically, the implant is set into the jaw, and then a crown that looks like a tooth is placed on top. The result is a prosthesis that will be long-lasting and allow you to chew and speak without needing to worry about anything shifting out of place. Plus, you can keep your implant clean just like any other tooth by simply brushing and flossing daily.   

One thing to keep in mind is that getting a dental implant requires multiple trips to the dentist to undergo the procedure in stages. This isn’t for everyone, so your dentist will determine if you’re the right type of patient for this prosthesis. And, even though implants do come with a host of benefits, they’re expensive, so having the right dental insurance may come in really handy if you decide that this is the best way to replace a missing tooth.

Dental Crown

When a tooth becomes severely damaged, such as when it’s cracked or chipped or a root canal is needed, a crown can be used to restore the look of the tooth, and to get it working like a natural tooth again.  

Designed to last a long time, this dental prosthesis is placed after restorative work is done on your natural tooth, as the crown is applied to the part of the tooth that remains. You may have to go to the dentist for more than one appointment to get a custom crown. And once it’s permanently in place, you can brush and floss to keep it clean.   

Dental Bridge

Your dentist might recommend a dental bridge if you’re missing more than one tooth. However, this might also be a good solution if you only need one tooth replaced. Like other dental prostheses, this one is designed to look like natural teeth, and it may last a long time, especially if you brush and floss daily.  

To permanently set a bridge in place, your dentist will anchor it to the teeth on each side of the gap where you’re missing pearly whites. Crowns will sit on the abutment teeth, while false teeth (a.k.a. pontics) will be in between the crowns. More than one appointment may be necessary because the anchor teeth need to be shaped so they’ll hold the crowns and bridge once it has been made to fit your mouth. 

Veneers

Veneers are different because they sit on the surface of your pearly whites. They’re thin and can transform the look of one or more teeth. Your dentist might recommend veneers if your chompers are discolored, cracked, or chipped. And you might even benefit from this prosthesis if there’s a gap between your teeth. Pretty neat!  

To get a veneer, you might need to see the dentist multiple times. First, they’ll remove some of the enamel from the tooth that’s being restored. Then, a veneer that’s made for you will be cemented to the tooth so it will remain securely in place for a long time.   

Dental insurance can help you afford dental prostheses!

Isn’t it wonderful to have so many options that can replace damaged or lost teeth? Unfortunately, these procedures are usually expensive, so it may be difficult to pay for them out-of-pocket. Thankfully, there’s an easy solution: enroll in dental insurance! 

If you want to take advantage of a dental prosthesis but you’re concerned about being able to afford it, consider signing up for Spirit Dental insurance. You can find plans that won’t break the bank and will give you coverage for everything from cleanings to implants. Then, you can work with your dentist to restore your smile and regain your confidence. 

Sources:

https://www.healthline.com/health/dental-prosthesis?c=1065957514863

https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/adult-oral-care/which-dental-prosthesis-is-right-for-you

https://shrewsburydentist.com/2016/10/q-and-a-what-are-dental-prosthetics/

https://www.ameritech.edu/blog/guide-dental-prosthetics/ 

https://www.familydental.com/library/8032/Fixedvs.RemovableDentures.html 

https://www.newmouth.com/dentistry/restorative/dentures/permanent/ 

https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/guide/dental-health-bridges