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Use Partial Dentures Wisely to Protect Your Future Oral Health

partial-denture-300Dentures, removable restorations for missing teeth and gum tissue, can take a number of different forms, but are usually of two different types: complete and partial. A complete denture replaces all the teeth in a given arch. A removable partial denture (RPD), on the other hand, replaces several missing teeth while using the remaining teeth as support.

A common type of RPD formed of plastic is known as a “flipper” because it’s lightweight enough to be “flipped out” or moved around with the tongue. They serve an important purpose as a temporary appliance for use between periodontal treatment, implant placement and similar treatments before obtaining a more permanent restoration. In fact, they’re often referred to as “transitional” RPDs because they’re not designed for permanent tooth replacement.

Because of their low cost relative to other restorations, however, they often become the permanent choice for many people. While a well-constructed, properly fitting RPD in a healthy mouth can be an affordable alternative for people on modest budgets, their long-term use may increase the risk of dental disease and accelerated bone loss. Decades of research verify that people who permanently wear RPDs encounter more tooth decay and periodontal (gum) disease than non-wearers.

This is because the attachment points of a plastic RPD to remaining teeth increases bacterial growth, which can cause both tooth decay and gum disease. This doesn’t only endanger the survival of the remaining teeth, it can lead to bone loss that will affect the RPD’s fit.

While the better course is to consider RPDs as a stepping stone to dental implants or a fixed bridge, there’s an intermediary RPD constructed of cast vitallium or gold alloy that could be considered a permanent choice. These are even lighter weight than plastic and less obtrusive in their attachments in the mouth, which can reduce plaque stagnation and promote a better oral environment.

Regardless of your choice in dentures, it’s always important to maintain good consistent oral hygiene with daily brushing and flossing and semi-annual professional cleanings and checkups. Keeping a healthy mouth will help reduce your risk of dental disease and increase your satisfaction with your denture of choice.

If you would like more information on RPDs and other denture restorations, please contact us or schedule an appointment for a consultation. You can also learn more about this topic by reading the Dear Doctor magazine article “Removable Partial Dentures.”


How Does Invisalign Work?

So you want to do something about that overbite. 

It’s not just about cosmetics; it’s about your overall dental health. You know that — but you also know you don’t want to have to spend the next 1-3 years with the classic metal “railroad tracks” on your teeth if you don’t have to. Maybe you have heard about this thing called Invisalign, But how does it really work and is it right for you? Find out from the staff at DeLaura Dental in Romeo how Invisalign can help you!

How Invisalign worksinvisible-braces
According to Invisalign and the American Association of Orthodontists, the Invisalign system is an alignment therapy treatment system which utilizes a series of clear, virtually invisible plastic trays rather than metal brackets, bands, and/or wires the patient wears on their teeth. The trays are manufactured individually based on the patient’s particular case specifics. Each set of trays applies a gentle pressure to the patient’s teeth to move them into proper alignment a fraction of a millimeter at a time. Typically, the trays are worn for 2-3 weeks at a time, up to 20 hours a day, then changed out for the next set of trays in the therapy process.

Here are a few points to consider before deciding on Invisalign from your dentist in Romeo.

Pros

  • Invisalign trays are virtually invisible, so no one knows the patient is actually wearing them.
  • Invisalign trays are made to the individual patient’s case and desired outcome goal needs
  • Invisalign trays can be removed to eat, brush and floss, and other such moments that occur in everyday life
  • Invisalign trays are comfortable to use

Cons

  • Invisalign will have the best results in patients who wear them as directed. Therefore, the patient must have the self-discipline to complete the treatment plan as directed for optimal results.
  • Because Invisalign trays are removable, they can be misplaced or lost, unlike traditional braces, which are permanently affixed
  • Invisalign is not as effective for more severe or complex alignment/bite issues

Is Invisalign the right choice for you? Ultimately, that’s a decision that should be carefully considered. Your dentist or orthodontist can help you make the best decision for you. Call DeLaura Dental in Romeo today to schedule a consultation!