If you have teeth in the far back of the mouth, known as premolars and molars, that need to be removed due to tooth decay, injury, or other reasons, it’s important to find the best replacement to restore their full function. Known for their broader formation, back teeth are the foundation that help the mouth and anterior teeth handle the increased pressure it takes to crush, grind, and mash food while eating. Not only does this functionality make it easier to swallow, but it can also aid in effective digestion.
To help guide you in understanding your restorative dentistry options, our skilled Salisbury dentists have outlined effective solutions that can help bring back proper chewing, keep other teeth properly aligned, and support facial structure in cases of one or more missing posterior teeth.
Traditional Dentures
There are multiple types of dentures that can be beneficial for replacing missing teeth. In most cases, if an individual is missing a single molar—or molars and a series of adjacent teeth—a partial denture may be the best solution, whereas full dentures (complete dentures) are meant to replace an entire row of missing teeth on the upper and/or lower arch. Full and partial dentures utilize the underlying gums and bone for support; however, partial dentures also require a special clasp that hooks around the remaining natural teeth to ensure a secure fit. Although custom dentures are customized for a precise design and fit, it should be noted that traditional dentures can cause pressure resorption, in which the gums and tissues may dissolve over time beneath the denture and affect the way it fits within the mouth, so resizing may be necessary in the future.
Implant-Supported Dentures
Also referred to as “implant dentures” or “implant-anchored dentures,” implant-supported dentures can provide a stable foundation by inserting a select number of titanium posts into the jawbone that act as artificial tooth roots. Once fully fused to the jawbone via a process called osseointegration, the implants are considered permanent oral fixtures, and the posts are ready to secure the custom denture in place. This solid foundation helps to prevent slippage along the gums and reduce the need for denture adhesives. If an individual has insufficient jawbone density to accommodate the necessary number of implants, a bone graft may be recommended to rebuild the hard and soft tissues prior to the implantation process.
Another possible option for missing back teeth can be a dental bridge. This restorative solution consists of one or more artificial teeth that are attached to healthy, natural teeth on both sides of the empty space. One of our experienced dentists can help you determine whether a bridge, an implant denture, or a traditional denture is the best option for your needs.
To learn more about restorative dentistry options that can repair the function of missing back teeth, or to schedule an appointment with one of our dentists, please contact us today.