Missing teeth are a huge pain. Not only do they affect your appearance and self-esteem; they can also limit your ability to eat, and the gaps in your smile can cause additional health issues. Fortunately, the team at Lake Lanier Smiles offers various dental restorations, including bridges and dentures, to replace lost teeth in a remarkably lifelike manner. No matter what type of restoration you receive, properly preparing for your appointment can make the process easier. You may also adjust to your prosthetic and enjoy complete oral function more quickly.
Explore Your Options
There are several types of restorations to replace multiple missing teeth. Therefore, familiarizing yourself with the various options is one of the most important things you can do in advance. At your appointment, your dentist will further outline your choices. Then, considering the number of teeth you are missing, your cosmetic goals, and your overall health, he will help you make the right selection for you.
- Traditional fixed bridges typically restore one to three missing teeth. A bridge will rest atop your natural teeth, so your dentist will need to reshape those teeth at one of your first appointments.
- A traditional denture can replace three or more missing teeth. In fact, thanks to its larger size, it can even restore your entire dental arch. This type of prosthetic is removable, and you will use adhesive to hold it in place.
- Implant-supported bridges usually replace two to three teeth. Unlike traditional bridges, they sit on top of permanent dental implants. Although they will not require alteration of your teeth, they will necessitate preparatory surgery to place the implants.
- Implant-supported dentures can restore all or most of your dental arch. They, too, sit on top of implant posts and typically require four or more posts for complete support.
Planning Your Restoration
After your dentist helps you select the right type, he will carefully design your restoration so that it looks and feels natural. He will consider all aspects of your smile, including the shade and shape of your natural teeth, the color of your gums, and the shape of your alveolar ridge. To assist our lab in creating the most lifelike restoration possible, your dentist will take photos of your smile and three-dimensional impressions of your mouth.
Get Ready with Snacks
Whatever size and type of restoration you receive, it is likely that you will experience some oral sensitivity after your first appointment. Even if you already wear dentures, it may take some time to adjust to your new prosthetic. Therefore, it is a good idea to stock up on soft, easy-to-chew foods prior to your appointment. At the same time, make sure to get all the vitamins and nutrients you need, especially if you are going to undergo implant surgery. Appropriate nutrition will help facilitate a more successful and speedy recovery.
Preparing for Surgery
If you opt for an implant-supported restoration, you will need to take additional steps to get ready for implant surgery. Your dentist will also take extra care with the preparatory process. For example, he will take x-rays of your jaw to evaluate your bone density and to find the strongest places for dental implants. He will also inquire about your medications and lifestyle. He may ask you to stop taking certain prescriptions for a few weeks before your surgery. You will also need to stop smoking beforehand, as tobacco products can interfere with healing. Finally, your doctor will provide day-of tips, such as wearing comfortable clothing or listening to soothing music to calm your nerves.
Learn More about Bridges and Dentures
We want you to be comfortable and at-ease before undergoing any dental treatment. Contact us online to learn more about your restorative options and how you can get ready for your appointment. You can also call our Buford, GA, practice at (770) 831-0559.
