Prosthetic
Prosthetic Dentistry in Porterville, CA
All teeth work together to play an essential role in daily life. Unfortunately, tooth loss can happen at any age and inhibit our ability to speak, eat, and maintain correct dental alignment. Additionally, missing teeth can negatively impact the way individuals see themselves.
The good news is that if you lose your permanent teeth, prosthetic dentists can help you replace them and restore proper function. Sometimes referred to as prosthodontics, prosthetic dentistry is a field of dentistry concentrated on diagnosing, planning, and executing natural-looking dental restorations that look good (or better) than natural teeth.
Fortunately, Live Oak Dental Group delivers a wide range of options for rectifying tooth loss. Our dentists formulate comprehensive treatment plans. Our goal is to help patients understand and achieve what is the possible through functional, long-lasting, and appealing prosthetic devices.
As far as prosthodontics go, here is what Live Oak Dental Group offers:
Dental Bridges
A dental bridge is a viable option if you need to replace one with a few neighboring teeth. Traditional bridges employ healthy natural teeth and crowns to create a steady foundation on either side of a series of prosthetic teeth. As an even more stable alternative, dentists can also anchor dental bridges with dental implants.
Dentures
Generally speaking, dentures are removable prosthetic appliances that replace missing teeth. Each denture is designed to fit your needs and hold natural-looking artificial teeth that are attached to a gum-colored plastic base.
Partial Dentures
Usually, a partial denture (nicknamed “partials”) is a removable artificial replacement for one or more teeth neighboring teeth. Typically, partials connect to the mouth in one of two ways:
- Sometimes, partial dentures have a metal framework and clasps that attach to your teeth
- Other times, partials can have connectors that link to your natural teeth (with devices called “precision attachments”) for a more seamless appearance
Complete Dentures
If you are missing an entire row or set of teeth due to decay, disease, or damage, then you may benefit from complete dentures. A full set of dentures can help return your mouth’s functionality and appearance.
Full sets of dentures can be held in place in the following ways:
- Traditional dentures form a seal with the gums
- Just four meticulously placed dental implants
Dental Implants
When applied correctly, dental implant-supported restorations can replace natural teeth in the best possible way. Dentists fasten dental implants into the jawbone, and they mimic biological tooth roots, providing optimal appearance, feel, and function.
