Whether you lose a tooth naturally, or have to have one (or more) extracted, you will have to grapple with what to do for a replacement. If you leave the space in your mouth without any structure, eating and speaking can become challenging. Beyond that, your body will stop sending nutrients to that area of jawbone, and you could very well end up with a decrease in jawbone density. A condition called facial collapse is when jawbone diminishes so much that your cheeks actually begin to sink in and give you a more aged experience.

Traditional Dentures

Full upper and lower arches of replacement teeth made out of acrylic composite material are also known as dentures. You may have heard older generations refer to their dentures or bridges as “false teeth.” Traditional dentures are placed on top of your gum tissue. Generally, you can rely on natural suction to keep your dentures in place, and they provide a very uniform, natural looking smiles. If you are hoping to eat foods like corn-on-the-cob or steak, or experience frequent slipping of dentures, store-bought adhesives can be purchased over-the-counter to keep your teeth in place. If you have already lost all of the teeth on one or both arches, dentures are an affordable quality option. However, if you require extraction of teeth before replacement, dentures are not necessarily cost effective, and you may find that dental implants have some decided advantages.

Dental Implants

Dental implants involve surgical placement of biocompatible titanium posts. These will act as root replacements for optimal restoration of not only the look of teeth, but the function. Your body will view the posts (which will be inserted directly into your jawbone) as real roots so that nutrients are just as plentifully sent to your jawbone. The root replacements also provide an attachment point for realistic looking prosthetic teeth. Slipping and facial collapse will not be an issue with dental implants, and they will likely last longer and need no further adjustments, making them a superior

Visit your Des Moines Dentist

However you floss, do so daily. If you have difficulty flossing, questions about flossing techniques, or would like to know more about different flossing products, call Gateway Dental Group today at (515) 244-9565. Dr. Burds serves patients in Sherman Hill, River Bend, Kirkwood Glen, East Village, and the communities surrounding Des Moines.