Struggling with Dentures? Ask Us about Using Dental Implant to Support Them

Dentures are a great solution for replacing missing teeth, but they are not perfect and some people do struggle with wearing them. A common problem faced by many denture wearers is that they tend to move around, and this problem can increase as the years go by. This is due to the fact that the bone in the jaw is gradually reabsorbed, and there’s less retention to keep the denture firmly in place.

Things to Try Before Opting for Dental Implants

One solution is to use denture adhesives, but these can be quite messy and expensive and may not be so good for long-term use. Another solution is to visit Leeds City Dentalcare to have your dentures checked, as it may be possible to reline them to improve the fit. It’s important to remember that dentures tend to have a shelf life of anywhere between 3 to 6 years after which time they will need replacing. However if you’d like a more permanent solution then you may want to ask Dr David Brown about using dental implants to support your dentures.

Dental Implant LeedsUsing Implants to Stabilise Dentures

Perhaps you thought implants were too expensive, especially to replace a complete arch of missing teeth, but using them to stabilise a denture can be surprisingly affordable. This is because an implant supported denture only requires a few dental implants, as it is all down to the placement. When properly placed these few implants will spread the load of the denture so you will be able to eat and chew a greater variety of foods with much more confidence and enjoyment.

If you currently have digestive problems then you could find these improve as being able to chew your food properly will enable it to be digested more thoroughly. Another huge advantage is that you will feel confident in accepting social situations that involve food, as many people with dentures that are difficult to retain will actively avoid having to share meals with others.

Implant Supported Dentures are Easy to Care For

Implant supported dentures clip onto special attachments fitted to the implants so you can be assured they will not move or slip and you will not need to use messy denture adhesives to hold them in place. They can be removed for cleaning, and it is important that you take out your dentures every night and thoroughly clean them and the dental implant in Leeds. It is especially important to clean your implants properly as otherwise the gum tissue surrounding them could become infected, a condition that is called peri-implantitis. This is similar to gum disease and can be just as serious, but can easily be avoided through good oral hygiene.

A lower denture can be supported on just four implants, while an upper denture will require a few more, anywhere from six to eight. Most people use this type of system to secure lower dentures as these tend to be the most problematic, but it is especially nice for anyone who hates wearing an upper denture due to having a strong gag reflex. Upper implant supported dentures do not cover the upper palate, making them comfortable and easy to wear. The upper palate also has taste buds, so uncovering it can lead to a greater ability to taste food properly.

This treatment isn’t for everyone, but if you currently struggle with dentures then it is worth contacting our surgery to make an appointment to talk to one of our dentist in Leeds and to find out more.

Dr. David S Brown

David is principal dentist & clinical director of Leeds City Dentalcare. Having graduated at Leeds University & at the Royal College of Surgeons, London, he joined the practice in 1990 & took over as principal in 1992. He has a passion for ensuring that we are equipped with the very latest & finest equipment available securing our place as one of the best equipped practices in Yorkshire.

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What Are the Key Factors for Having a Successful Dental Implant?

Dental implant surgery is becoming far more commonplace and is regarded by many as being the gold standard for tooth replacement. When the procedure is properly carried out at a reputable dental surgery such as Leeds City Dental care, then the success rate is extremely high, typically 95% or even a little more. However there are certain factors that can influence whether or not a dental implant is successful and while some of these are down to your dentist in Leeds, others are the responsibility of the patient.

Proper Planning Is Essential

A conventional dental implant in Leeds needs to be surrounded by 2 to 3 mm of healthy bone. This is essential for a process called osseo integration to take place which is where the specially treated implant post will integrate with the surrounding bone, and new bone cells are encouraged to grow on and around the post. If there is insufficient bone then it might be necessary to have a bone augmentation or graft to create sufficient volume at the implant site.

Correct placement of the implant will allow it to function exactly like a natural tooth, and will ensure it looks completely natural. Without proper planning there is always the chance that the implant might be placed in the incorrect position, and this can affect the way it functions, and could make it awkward for a crown to be fabricated so it blends in with the surrounding teeth.

Good Oral and General Health Are Extremely Important

It’s extremely important that you are in good oral health and that you don’t have any existing dental issues that may affect your implant. Diseases such as gum disease and tooth decay must be treated before the implant can be placed. Being in good general health will help your implant to heal more quickly, ensuring the surgery is a success. Being in poor health means your body will lack nutrients that are essential to help healing.

If you smoke then it’s important to quit before surgery, and to refrain from smoking while your implant is healing, or preferably just to quit altogether. Smoking affects your gums and makes it much harder for them to heal through constricting the blood vessels in the gums. This prevents essential nutrients from reaching the gums, and slows down the removal of harmful toxins.

Care for Your Dental Implant

Your dental implant needs caring for in exactly the same way you would your natural teeth. It’s very important to floss thoroughly around the implant and to keep it as free as possible from plaque and calculus. You can still get gum disease around the site of an implant, and this will affect the bone levels and could lead to implant failure. This condition is called peri-implantitis and signs of this disease include noticing the gums around your implant bleed when brushed, or that there is a discharge from the gum, or that you have an unpleasant taste in your mouth. If you notice any of these signs then it’s important to contact Dr David Brown or any of the dentists at Leeds City Dental care for advice and swift treatment.

You can help avoid this condition from developing through making sure you brush and floss thoroughly each day and by attending our Leeds surgery at regular intervals for check-ups and professional cleanings. Many people have had successful dental implants; with care they should last a very long time, and you won’t even know they’re there.

Dr. David S Brown

David is principal dentist & clinical director of Leeds City Dentalcare. Having graduated at Leeds University & at the Royal College of Surgeons, London, he joined the practice in 1990 & took over as principal in 1992. He has a passion for ensuring that we are equipped with the very latest & finest equipment available securing our place as one of the best equipped practices in Yorkshire.

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What’s The Best Way to Replace a Missing Front Tooth?

Losing a tooth is never pleasant, but there’s something particularly emotive about having to say goodbye to a front tooth. The problem with using a front tooth is that it is so visible, and it’s something that definitely needs replacing if you care about your smile. There are several ways you can think about replacing this tooth, and Dr David Brown or another of our dentists will discuss all your options with you, including the price and time required for treatment.

Replacing Your Tooth with a Dental Bridge

This is still a very popular option as it is reasonably cost-effective and the results can look very nice indeed. Opting for an all ceramic bridge will give you the very best results, and most people would be hard pushed to tell the difference between your dental bridge and your natural teeth. All ceramic bridges have a translucency and vitality that is very similar to your natural teeth and can be closely matched to the shade of your remaining teeth. You’ll find your dental bridge is characterised and is individually shaded to provide replacement teeth that look just like your original teeth and probably even a little bit better.

One of the downside to having a traditional dental bridge is that it requires healthy teeth to be ground down as these will need to be crowned to act as anchors for the pontic or replacement tooth. An alternative would be to try something that is called a Maryland bridge as this has one or two wings that are attached to the pontic. These wings are cemented onto the back of the adjacent teeth to hold the bridge in position. Although modern dental cements are extremely good at this type of bridge can occasionally pop off and will need reattaching at Leeds City Dentalcare.

Replacing Your Tooth with a Partial Denture

Another option is to replace your tooth using a partial denture and this is the most cost effective method. Modern denture teeth can look extremely good, and your denture can be constructed in a way that will make it as easy as possible to use. In spite of this dentures can move around, and it’s all too easy to get food stuck underneath. Many people find them uncomfortable to wear, and of course they do need taking out each night for cleaning and should be left out while sleeping to allow the gun tissue time to recover.

Replacing Your Tooth with a Dental Implant

The third option is to replace a missing tooth with a single dental implant. This is the more expensive option compared to a bridge or a partial denture, but is also likely to be the most long-lived. Dentures need replacing every 3 to 6 years while dental bridges will last up to 10 years or maybe even longer. Dental implants in Leeds can last decades but do require good oral hygiene. Another major advantage of having a dental implant is that they are very good for oral health and won’t have any negative effects on your remaining teeth. However this option is right for everybody as it does require a small surgical procedure and you do need to be in good general health. It is important to emphasise that the surgical procedure is very quick, and Leeds City Dentalcare can ensure you’re kept comfortable right throughout the implant placement.

If you have any questions about the best way of replacing a front tooth then contact our dentist in Leeds, they will always do their best to answer any queries you might have.

Dr. David S Brown

David is principal dentist & clinical director of Leeds City Dentalcare. Having graduated at Leeds University & at the Royal College of Surgeons, London, he joined the practice in 1990 & took over as principal in 1992. He has a passion for ensuring that we are equipped with the very latest & finest equipment available securing our place as one of the best equipped practices in Yorkshire.

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Is it Better to Have a Root Canal Treatment or a Dental Implant?

If you are currently battling with an abscessed or infected tooth then you may be wondering if it is better to simply have the tooth extracted and an implant placed as opposed to having root canal treatment. This decision does depends on the individual situation, but if Dr David Brown or any of our dentists think your tooth cannot be saved then we will suggest you have it extracted and one of the options for replacement is likely to be a dental implant.

Leeds City Dentalcare Recommends the Most Conservative Treatment Possible

However if we think there is any chance that your tooth may be able to be saved then we will almost certainly recommend you have a root canal treatment. This is a conservative treatment that is often highly successful at saving an infected or damaged tooth, enabling it to be restored to full function through the placement of a dental crown. It is usually a highly successful treatment as the skilled dentist at Leeds City Dentalcare are able to remove the diseased pulp area and can clear up the infection through use of antibiotics if necessary.

It is always better to try to make your natural teeth lost as long as possible, but not at the expense of your oral health. If your tooth is particularly broken down or diseased and is affecting your jawbone then it may be better to extract it. There are also occasions where root canal therapy won’t work, for instance if the tooth has fractured all the way down to the root. In this instance it is better to have it extracted.

Opting for a Dental Implant

Leeds City Dentalcare will always discuss all the options for replacing a lost tooth with you, but there are several valid reasons for considering a dental implant. The first and most important reason is due to the fact that dental implants in Leeds help to protect against bone loss in your jawbone. They are able to do this as they closely replicate natural tooth roots, providing the stimulation necessary to keep your jawbone strong and healthy. Without this stimulation your jawbone will gradually reabsorb as there will be no reason for new bone cells to grow.

The second reason for choosing a dental implant, even to replace just a single missing tooth, is that it can do so in a way that is incredibly natural looking. If you are after excellent aesthetic results, and really don’t want anyone to know you are missing a tooth then a dental implant may be your best option.

The third reason for choosing a dental implant is that it won’t have any negative effects on your adjacent teeth. The alternatives to having a dental implant include a partial denture or a dental bridge. A partial denture may require healthy teeth to be modified in order for the clasps to fit securely in place. Choosing a dental bridge requires the adjacent teeth to be ground down to make room for the crowns that will be attached to the pontic or replacement tooth used to create a dental bridge.

Having a dental implant may take a little longer and might require a few more visits to Leeds City Dentalcare, but is well worth the effort. Dental implants can last for decades, provided they are properly looked after, and look and feel just like natural teeth.

Dr. David S Brown

David is principal dentist & clinical director of Leeds City Dentalcare. Having graduated at Leeds University & at the Royal College of Surgeons, London, he joined the practice in 1990 & took over as principal in 1992. He has a passion for ensuring that we are equipped with the very latest & finest equipment available securing our place as one of the best equipped practices in Yorkshire.

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Smoking Affects Bone Healing in the Jaw

Most people already know smoking is bad for their general health, and more are becoming aware of the way it affects their oral health, but these effects may be even more far reaching than previously imagined. Recent research has found that smoking negatively affects the way bone heals after treatment for gum disease. It was found that non-smokers healed better than smokers after receiving treatment, but the study didn’t look at bone healing in people who had previously smoked.

A review has also been carried out into a previous study which found smoking inhibited the growth of bone by approximately 2.5mm in smokers, compared to non-smokers. This may sound like a tiny amount, but is enough to make a real difference to oral health. Gum disease is one of the main reasons bone is lost in the jaw, and is likely to lead to teeth becoming loose. While it is possible to have them replaced with dental implants in Leeds, any significant bone loss could mean it is necessary to have a bone graft before implant surgery can be successfully carried out. Traditional dental implants generally need to be surrounded with approximately 3mm of healthy bone, which is why anything that prevents bone regeneration is noteworthy.

The Argument for Quitting Smoking

Smoking is well-known to have an adverse effect on oral health, and the act of smoking damages the soft gum tissues. This is because the nicotine constricts the blood vessels, making it much harder for the body to send the required nutrients to the gums, and for toxins to be transported away from the gums. If you do smoke, and require treatment, especially for gum disease or for dental implants, then Leeds City Dentalcare is likely to recommend you quit, at least for a while before having your treatment, and during the healing process.

It is not yet known how being a former smoker may affect the rates of bone regeneration after treatment for gum disease, so it is possible that regeneration rates may be lower, depending on how long ago you quit. Even so, giving up is likely to give the body more of a fighting chance of replacing lost bone, as it will be better placed to fight disease and infection. This is especially true if you are thinking about replacing lost teeth with dental implants. The success rate for dental implants, when placed by an expert dentist such as Dr David Brown, is likely to be as high as 95% for a healthy person who is prepared to look after their oral health and their implants, but this rate can fall considerably in someone who has any kind of condition that impacts oral health.

Even if you are not considering implants, giving up will still help increase the efficacy of treatment for gum disease, especially if a significant amount of treatment is require for advanced gum disease, or periodontal disease. Bone loss in the jaw will also impact the efficacy of other dental prosthesis, for example dentures require a healthy amount of bone for good retention. If you think you may have gum disease, regardless of whether or not you smoke, then our dentist in Leeds do urge you to make an appointment to visit Leeds City Dentalcare as soon as possible for a check-up. Early treatment helps to ensure that bone from your jaw isn’t lost.

Dr. David S Brown

David is principal dentist & clinical director of Leeds City Dentalcare. Having graduated at Leeds University & at the Royal College of Surgeons, London, he joined the practice in 1990 & took over as principal in 1992. He has a passion for ensuring that we are equipped with the very latest & finest equipment available securing our place as one of the best equipped practices in Yorkshire.

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New Research Could Mean More People Benefit from Dental Implants

Dental implants are an increasingly popular treatment amongst our Leeds patients who are missing more than one tooth, but at the moment this procedure does have limitations. Dental implants can be unsuitable for people who smoke, for diabetics or for people who have had cancer. They may also be unsuitable for people with osteoporosis, or for anyone who has bone deficiencies. Dental implants consist of a titanium post that is inserted into the jawbone, and these conditions can make it more difficult for the titanium post to integrate fully with the bone creating a strong enough bond to support a restoration.

Enhanced Biocompatibility

However now researchers in Castellón have come up with a new type of implant coating that is made of biodegradable material and which is aimed specifically at people who have bone deficiencies. These specially coated implants give enhanced biocompatibility and increase the rate of osseointegration. Osseointegration is the process whereby the titanium post fuses with the jawbone, creating a strong and stable base upon which the final crown, dental bridge or denture can be secured.

Apparently this new implant covering is biodegradable and when it comes into contact with bone dissolves during the degradation process, releasing bioactive molecules and silicone compounds that help stimulate the bone to grow around the implant. This technology is completely different from the methods currently being used. At the moment the titanium posts used for dental implants are specially treated to roughen the surface, increasing the surface area and therefore the likelihood of integration with the bone. At the moment this new technology is still being tested and has yet to receive a full clinical evaluation. It will be several years before it is a marketable product but it does show the types of improvements that are being made in dental technology.

If You Have Lost a Tooth and Then Ask Leeds City Dentalcare about Dental Implants

Although some people are unsuitable for dental implants, it’s the ideal solution for many and you can find out if it’s the right course of action for you simply by booking a consultation with Dr David Brown or another of our dentist at Leeds surgery. Properly planned and placed dental implants have an extremely high success rate, but they do require patients to look after them correctly and it’s vital to have a good daily oral care routine. The procedure for placing dental implants is really quite straightforward, especially if you are in good oral health and don’t have any other existing health conditions that may affect implant placement.

Dental Implants are Ideal for Stabilising Dentures

Implants are the best and most natural way of replacing single missing tooth, but are especially good for stabilising loose dentures. We do find quite a lot of our Leeds patients struggle with wearing full dentures, especially if they lost their teeth quite some time ago. This is particularly true for lower dentures as the bony ridge that used to support the teeth is gradually reabsorbed and becomes flatter and less retentive. Lower dentures may be able to be stabilised with relatively few dental implants making this a cost effective option that is within reach of many people. Stable dentures can increase confidence, and can mean better nutrition as it is easier to eat a much wider range of foods. If you currently struggle with dentures then it is well worth asking Leeds City Dentalcare about this option as it may be more affordable than you imagine.

Dr. David S Brown

David is principal dentist & clinical director of Leeds City Dentalcare. Having graduated at Leeds University & at the Royal College of Surgeons, London, he joined the practice in 1990 & took over as principal in 1992. He has a passion for ensuring that we are equipped with the very latest & finest equipment available securing our place as one of the best equipped practices in Yorkshire.

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The Advantages of Having a Dental Implant to Replace a Single Tooth

Losing even a single tooth can be very upsetting, and most people will want to replace it as soon as possible. The quickest methods of replacing a lost tooth are to either have a partial one tooth denture, or to have a bridge fitted. Both these methods are quite cost-effective, but aren’t necessarily the best way to replace a lost tooth. A lot of people find a partial denture awkward to wear, and hate the thought of having to remove it every night. In comparison a dental bridge that is permanently cemented into place might seem to be the better option. However the major disadvantage of this choice is that it does affect the adjacent teethas at least one and probably two teeth will need to be modified to make room for the bridge. Neither of these methods does anything to help maintain the jawbone which will gradually reabsorb following the extraction of the tooth at Leeds City Dentalcare.

In comparison choosing a dental implant to replace a single missing tooth won’t negatively impact any of the remaining teeth in the mouth. Having a dental implant will help keep these teeth in the correct position, and just as importantly will help maintain the bone in that area. A single dental implant can look exactly like a natural tooth provided the implant surgery is properly planned by an experienced dentist in Leeds such as Dr David Brown or another of our dentists at our Leeds surgery. The correctly placed implant will make it appear as if the tooth is emerging naturally from the gum as it will have exactly the right profile. It is by far the most aesthetically pleasing way of replacing the tooth, and if cared for properly should last a very long time.

The Process for Having a Single Dental Implant

The only downside of this treatment is that it can take a little longer to complete than having a partial denture or a bridge fitted. You’ll need to have dental x-rays and a CT scan so the implant surgery can be correctly planned. The actual implant surgery only takes a very short while to complete, especially just for a single implant. Many people find local anaesthetic is adequate to get them through this process, but if you’re particularly nervous you may want to ask about a little extra sedation.

The exact placement of your implant will already have been decided prior to the surgery, so it’s simply a matter of having a small incision made into your gum so the titanium post can be inserted into the jawbone. Afterwards the gum will be stitched back in place and you’ll almost certainly be given a temporary restoration to wear while the implant site heals. You’ll also be given lots of advice on how to look after the implant site, and how to deal with any discomfort. The discomfort for having a single implant should be relatively minor, and you should be able to expect to return to work the next day.

The implant site does need to be left to heal for several months so new bone cells can form on and around the specially treated titanium post. Afterwards you can return to Leeds City Dentalcare to have your implant crown fitted. This is a straightforward procedure and simply involves the dentist attaching an abutment to the titanium post. This protrudes above the gum line and supports the crown. An impression is taken of your implant and sent to our dental laboratory for the crown to be fabricated. The crown can be made out of all ceramic materials or it can be ceramic fused to a metal alloy base. If you want the very best aesthetic results then it’s worth choosing an all-ceramic crown.

The process for having a single dental implant may take a little longer to complete, but it’s by far the best option for oral health and for aesthetics.

Dr. David S Brown

David is principal dentist & clinical director of Leeds City Dentalcare. Having graduated at Leeds University & at the Royal College of Surgeons, London, he joined the practice in 1990 & took over as principal in 1992. He has a passion for ensuring that we are equipped with the very latest & finest equipment available securing our place as one of the best equipped practices in Yorkshire.

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Dental Implants or a Dental Bridge? Which Is Best?

Losing a tooth is always upsetting, but luckily there are different options for replacing it, including a dental implant or a three unit fixed dental bridge. Both of these methods have their advantages and disadvantages, and both procedures are offered here at Leeds City Dentalcare.

Dental Implants at Leeds City Dentalcare

A dental implant functions a little like an artificial tooth root. Dr David Brown or another of our dentists will insert a titanium post into your jawbone during a small surgical procedure. After this it’s likely the implant will need several months to heal and integrate with the bone. This is a process called osseointegration whereby new bone cells will grow on and around the surface of the titanium post which has been specially treated to aid this process.

Advantages of Dental Implants

One of the advantages of choosing a dental implant is the fact that it does replicate a natural tooth root and can help preserve the bone in your jaw. It’s also a very good treatment as it doesn’t affect the teeth adjacent to the gap. This procedure can be long-lasting if cared for properly.

Disadvantages of Dental Implants

The major disadvantage of having a dental implant is that the cost can be more expensive than having a dental bridge, even though in the longer term it may be more cost effective. A dental implant also requires more planning, and you’ll need to visit our Leeds surgery several times to complete the treatment. It can also be a longer procedure than having a dental bridge as the implant does require time to heal before a permanent tooth can be placed.

Fixed Bridges at Leeds City Dentalcare

A three unit fixed dental bridge involves having the teeth either side of the missing tooth ground down to make room for crowns. These crowns are then attached to a pontic which is a false tooth, and which replaces the missing tooth. A three unit bridge can be made out of several different materials, but the best results will be obtained through having an all ceramic bridge.

Advantages of Fixed Bridges

The advantage of having a fixed bridge is that it is treatment that can be completed in a relatively short space of time. It is less expensive than having a dental implant, and provides reasonably good aesthetic results.

Disadvantages of Fixed Bridges

The main disadvantage of having a fixed bridge is that it does require some material to be removed from the teeth adjacent to the missing tooth. Although the treatment is cheaper in the short term it lacks the longevity of dental implants. A fixed dental bridge will not do anything to help preserve the bone in the jaw.

Ultimately of course the choice is yours, but it’s something you can always discuss with any of our Leeds Dentist in our Leeds surgery. Dental implants are definitely a better long-term choice, but this treatment isn’t always suitable for everyone. Again this is something to discuss during your initial consultation with Dr David Brown or another of our dentists. We always recommend preserving as much healthy tooth structure as possible, and the best way to do this is through having a dental implant that doesn’t have any impact on adjacent teeth.

Dr. David S Brown

David is principal dentist & clinical director of Leeds City Dentalcare. Having graduated at Leeds University & at the Royal College of Surgeons, London, he joined the practice in 1990 & took over as principal in 1992. He has a passion for ensuring that we are equipped with the very latest & finest equipment available securing our place as one of the best equipped practices in Yorkshire.

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Implant Supported Dentures at Leeds City Dentalcare

Implant supported dentures might be of interest if you currently wear full dentures and struggle with keeping them in place. Even if your dentures are relatively stable, we find many of our patients at our Leeds surgery are concerned that they may move about, especially in social situations. This embarrassment and worry over wearing full dentures can stop some people from living life to the full, something that isn’t a concern to people wearing implant supported dentures that are held securely in place.

What are Implant Supported Dentures?

Implant supported dentures are full dentures that are attached to implants in the mouth which support them and hold them firmly in place. This is quite different from an ordinary denture which is supported by the gums. Dental implant Leeds supported or implant retained dentures are an excellent solution for anyone who has lost all their teeth in the upper or lower jaw, but who has sufficient bone to support several implants. These implants are quite different from those that support crowns and bridges as they have special attachments that allow the dentures to snap into place.

This system is usually recommended by Dr David Brown and other dentists in our Leeds surgery to replace lower full dentures. The reason for this is that lower dentures tend to be much less stable than upper dentures. Upper dentures have a full acrylic palate that helps give good retention whereas lower dentures rely on just the bony ridge that used to support the teeth for retention. Over the course of time this bony ridge is gradually reabsorbed and becomes flatter, making it more and more difficult for a lower denture to be firmly retained.

What Is the Process for Having Implant Retained Dentures?

The process for having implant retained dentures is very similar to having any type of implant. You’ll need to book a consultation with our dentist Leeds City Dentalcare to find out if you are suitable for this type of treatment. The implants used for retaining dentures are generally placed towards the front of the mouth, simply because there’s more bone in this area than at the back of the jaw. It’s also a good area to place the implants as there are fewer nerves that may interfere with placement. It might be necessary to have a bone graft if you don’t have sufficient bone in the required area.

The next stage is to plan the implant placement and to decide on the type of attachments that will be used to retain your denture. Sometimes dentures are retained with a thin metal bar that is attached to several implants, and the denture then fits securely over the bar. Another choice is to use a type of ball and socket system, where the sockets are located in the denture and fit securely over ball attachments on the implants. The exact timeframe for placing the implants and the finished implant supported denture will vary from case to case, as some people will be able to have it fitted more quickly than others. There’s no need to worry that you will be left without teeth at this time, as you will be supplied with a temporary denture after the implants are placed which can be used until your implant supported denture is ready to be fitted.

Caring For Your Implant Supported Denture

The dental team at Leeds City Dentalcare will give you lots of advice on looking after your new implant supported denture. You’ll need to remove it every day to clean it thoroughly in much the same way you would an ordinary full denture. You should leave it out of your mouth overnight. If you think this might be a problem then ask Dr David S Brown or another of our dentists whether you would be suitable to have an implant supported bridge instead, that can be firmly fixed in place and which cannot be removed.

Dr. David S Brown

David is principal dentist & clinical director of Leeds City Dentalcare. Having graduated at Leeds University & at the Royal College of Surgeons, London, he joined the practice in 1990 & took over as principal in 1992. He has a passion for ensuring that we are equipped with the very latest & finest equipment available securing our place as one of the best equipped practices in Yorkshire.

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Methods of Replacing Missing Teeth

It is distressing to have missing teeth, but it’s also important to replace them in some way or other. The reason for this is that otherwise the teeth adjacent to the gap will begin to drift into the space, while the teeth in the opposing jaw may move downwards as they have nothing to bite against to hold them in place.

This can lead to problems in your bite, and may need to unsightly gaps developing. Once the teeth do begin to move around it’s quite difficult to correct them, so it’s obviously better to replace teeth soon after they are lost. Another problem is that missing teeth can create extra pressure on the remaining teeth whenever you bite or chew, and this could lead to them fracturing or chipping. If you are missing quite a few teeth then you’ll probably notice that your face has changed shape. This is because teeth have an important part to play in supporting your cheeks and lips, and having a full complement of teeth can create a more youthful appearance!

Our dentist Leeds has several different options available to replace teeth, and the solution may depend on the location of the tooth, your budget, and your general health. It’s something Dr David Brown will discuss with you when you visit Leeds City Dentalcare for an initial consultation. Your options include a partial denture, a bridge, or an implant.

Partial Dentures, an Affordable and Easy Solution to Replacing Missing Teeth

The easiest way to replace a missing tooth or teeth is to have a partial denture. This is where a false tooth or teeth are supported on a gum coloured acrylic base. It’s quite likely the acrylic base will be strengthened with a metal alloy, and the partial denture may be held in place with metal clasps that fit around your remaining teeth. Its affordability is one of the main advantages of this type of replacement, but healthy teeth may need to be modified to accommodate the clasps, and some people find it uncomfortable to wear a partial denture. Others worry it could move about or affect eating and speaking.

Replacing Teeth with a Bridge

Another popular method is to replace the missing teeth with a bridge. The missing tooth is replaced with a false tooth called a pontic which is anchored to one or two crowns. These crowns fit over the teeth adjacent to the gap, and mean healthy teeth need to be ground down to create sufficient space for the crown or crowns. The fact they are permanently cemented in place is a bonus, and modern materials such as all ceramic bridges can look extremely natural and are very strong.

Replacing Missing Teeth with an Implant

While both of the above methods are suitable for just about anybody, dental implants are slightly different as it’s necessary to be in good oral and general health and to have sufficient bone density and mass to support the implant. This option can also seem slightly more expensive, but is also a long-term solution and might ultimately prove to be more cost effective. One of the major advantages of choosing dental implants Leeds over the previous two methods is that it doesn’t require the destruction of any healthy tooth structure, and in fact it’s more likely to help maintain bone density. It is by far the most natural way of replacing a missing tooth, as the titanium post replicates a tooth root, stimulating the bone in that area, making sure it doesn’t reabsorb.

When you visit our Leeds surgery for a consultation we will discuss all these options with you, helping you to choose the method most suitable for you. Ultimately of course it is your choice.

Dr. David S Brown

David is principal dentist & clinical director of Leeds City Dentalcare. Having graduated at Leeds University & at the Royal College of Surgeons, London, he joined the practice in 1990 & took over as principal in 1992. He has a passion for ensuring that we are equipped with the very latest & finest equipment available securing our place as one of the best equipped practices in Yorkshire.

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