Dentures – What are they?

Dentures are removable appliances that replace a missing tooth or teeth. Dentures can be made of plastic or of plastic teeth on a metal framework.

What is the process for making and fitting dentures?

Impressions of your mouth will be made and handed over  to your dental technician. The technician will make a plastic model which will house a series of wax settings. The wax is sculptured by the dentist to give them a bite and a trial denture is made and fitted.

Once the trial fitting is tested for comfort and look then a final denture is made with any minor adjustments. You will be asked to return after a short while so any further minor adjustments can be made.

Implants – What Are They?

Implants are a more permanent way of replacing missing teeth. A man-made pillar (or root) is inserted into the jaw bone on which a replacement tooth will be placed.

What is the process for implants?

There are two stages to the implant. The first stage is the preparation of the jaw and the implanting of the pillar. When the jaw has healed the replacement teeth are attached.

In the first stage he initial implant of the pillar will be done under either general or local anaesthetic. The pillar is inserted and the gum will be stitched back over the pillar and allowed to heal.

It is some time later that the tooth extension is fitted. Your dentist will be able to give you a time frame and any other information you require.

Bridges – What Are They?

A bridge is a fixed and permanent structure that replaces missing teeth. It can be made of porcelain or different metals and it “bridges the gap” using your own teeth. It’s a very similar process to a crown and can take two or three visits to complete the bridge process.

What is the Process for a Bridge?

Your teeth on with side of the bridge are shaped by your dentist and mouldings are taken of the resculptured teeth and the space between. A temporary bridge is placed to protect your teeth whilst the mouldings are sent to a dental technician who will create your new bridge. Several impressions of the prepared teeth will be taken and sent to a lab which will construct the bridge. On your second visit the bridge is fitted and minor adjustments may be made. You may require a third visit for the bridge to be cemented into place permanently.