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prosthodontics

Prosthodontics

Losing a tooth, or several, is not only painful but also disheartening. After the initial shock, you are left with the discomfort of not being able to speak normally and an unwillingness to share your smile. Luckily, a missing tooth doesn’t need to mean the end of your smile. At Beechnut Dental Care, we can bring your smile back with prosthodontic treatments in Houston.

prosthodontics

Losing a tooth, or several, is not only painful but also disheartening. After the initial shock, you are left with the discomfort of not being able to speak normally and an unwillingness to share your smile. Luckily, a missing tooth doesn’t need to mean the end of your smile. At Beechnut Dental Care, we can bring your smile back with prosthodontic treatments in Houston.

Prosthodontics

What Is Prosthodontics?

Prosthodontics is the specialized field of dentistry concerned with diagnosing, planning, and executing restorative and cosmetic treatments. Dentists who choose to specialize in prosthodontics must complete three or four more years of dedicated training following dental school.

You can think of a prosthodontist as an architect who formulates a comprehensive treatment plan and informs the patient as to what is possible. Missing or defective teeth can be extremely detrimental to self-esteem and self-confidence. Using the latest technology, we can fill these gaps with functional, natural-looking teeth that boost confidence and enhance the smile.

What are Common Prosthodontic Treatments?

Dental Veneers

Veneers are porcelain/ceramic covers that are bonded to natural teeth.  Veneers can instantly solve problems like uneven teeth, stained teeth, and damage caused by general wear and tear.

Dental Crowns

Prosthetic crowns are typically made from porcelain, metal, or a combination of the two.  They are designed to mimic the natural crown (surface of the tooth) and can last over a decade with good dental care.

Dental Bridges

Conventional and cantilever bridges are used to support a prosthetic tooth.  The natural teeth can support the bridge if they are in good condition; otherwise, dental implants may be used as anchors.

Complete Dentures

Complete dentures are one of the preferred options for people who have lost all their teeth due to gum disease, trauma, or age.  Complete dentures restore functionality to the mouth and make chewing and speaking easier.

Partial Dentures

If you’ve lost several teeth, removable or fixed partial dentures can be an excellent solution. They can restore the appearance of your smile and make chewing feel normal again.

Replace several missing teeth while preserving your remaining natural teeth

Full Dentures

Complete tooth replacement with comfortable, custom-fitted prosthetics

What Other Problems Can a Prosthodontist Treat?

In addition to performing the treatments described above, the prosthodontist is also adept at treating problems with the jaw (TMJ), alleviating severe snoring, managing sleep apnea, and reconstructing the teeth following oral cancer treatments.  Generally, the prosthodontist works in conjunction with other dental health professionals to ensure the best possible restorative results are achieved.

Understanding the Cost of Dentures

At Beechnut Dental Care, the cost of dentures ranges from $1,800 to $4,500. This variation depends on factors such as the type of denture (complete or partial), the materials used, and the complexity of your individual case. Investing in quality dentures can significantly improve your ability to chew, speak, and smile confidently.

Opting for dentures not only restores the aesthetics of your smile but also supports facial structures, preventing the sunken appearance that can occur with missing teeth. Our team is dedicated to providing personalized care and will work with you to create dentures that fit comfortably and meet your specific needs. We also offer flexible payment options to ensure that restoring your smile is accessible to all our patients.

Frequently Asked Questions About Prosthodontic Treatments

What is the difference between crowns, bridges, and implants?

Dental crowns are tooth-shaped caps that cover damaged or weakened teeth to restore their shape, size, and function. Bridges are fixed prosthetic devices that replace one or more missing teeth by anchoring to adjacent healthy teeth. Dental implants are titanium posts surgically placed into the jawbone to replace tooth roots, topped with crowns to replace the visible portion of missing teeth. Each option has specific advantages depending on your oral health status, bone density, and treatment goals.

How long do prosthodontic treatments typically last?

The longevity of prosthodontic treatments varies depending on the type of restoration and how well you maintain them. Dental crowns and bridges typically last 10-15 years or longer with proper care. Dental implants can last a lifetime with good oral hygiene, though the crown portion may need replacement after 10-20 years. Complete dentures usually need replacement every 5-7 years, while partial dentures may last 5-10 years. Regular dental checkups and excellent oral hygiene significantly extend the lifespan of all prosthetic devices.

How long does prosthodontic treatment take to complete?

The timeline for prosthodontic treatment varies greatly depending on the complexity of your case and the type of restoration needed. Simple procedures like single crowns may be completed in 2-3 appointments over a few weeks. More complex treatments like full-mouth reconstruction or multiple implants can take several months to over a year to complete. This timeline includes healing periods, especially for procedures involving implants, where osseointegration (bone fusion) can take 3-6 months before final restorations can be placed.

How do I care for my prosthodontic restorations?

Caring for prosthodontic restorations requires maintaining excellent oral hygiene similar to natural teeth, but with some special considerations. This includes brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, daily flossing (using special floss threaders for bridges), and regular dental checkups. For removable appliances like dentures, proper cleaning and overnight soaking are essential. Avoiding hard foods that could damage restorations, not using teeth as tools, and wearing nightguards if you grind your teeth are also important for maintaining your investment.

Can prosthodontic treatment improve my facial appearance?

Yes, prosthodontic treatment can significantly improve your facial appearance and overall aesthetics. Missing teeth can cause facial collapse and premature aging, while properly designed restorations can restore facial height and support. Prosthodontists consider factors like lip support, facial proportions, and smile design when creating restorations. Full-mouth reconstructions can dramatically transform not only your smile but your entire facial profile, often taking years off your appearance while improving function and confidence.

What are the risks and complications associated with prosthodontic procedures?

While prosthodontic procedures are generally safe and successful, potential risks include temporary sensitivity, discomfort during the adjustment period, and rare complications like allergic reactions to materials. For implant procedures, risks include infection, nerve damage, or implant failure, though these occur in less than 5% of cases. Some patients may experience difficulty adjusting to new restorations, particularly with removable appliances. Your prosthodontist will discuss specific risks related to your treatment plan and take measures to minimize complications.

Can I eat normally with prosthodontic restorations?

Most patients can eat normally with properly fitted prosthodontic restorations, though there may be an adjustment period and some dietary considerations. Fixed restorations like crowns, bridges, and implant-supported teeth typically allow you to eat most foods without restriction once you’re fully healed. Removable dentures may require avoiding very hard, sticky, or chewy foods that could dislodge or damage the appliance. Your prosthodontist will provide specific dietary guidelines based on your type of restoration and recommend gradually reintroducing different foods as you become comfortable with your new prosthetics.

What is the difference between traditional dentures and implant-supported dentures?

Traditional dentures rest on your gums and are held in place by suction and denture adhesives, which can sometimes lead to slipping, discomfort, and reduced chewing efficiency. Implant-supported dentures are anchored to dental implants surgically placed in your jawbone, providing superior stability, comfort, and function. While implant-supported dentures require a higher initial investment and surgical procedures, they offer better long-term outcomes including preserved facial structure, improved chewing ability, and greater confidence in social situations. The choice between options depends on your bone density, overall health, budget, and personal preferences.

Do You Need Prosthodontics in Houston, Texas?

Restoring your smile is just one phone call away! Let our skilled dental health experts at Beechnut Dental Care work their magic and seamlessly bring your teeth back to their natural glory. Get in touch with us today to learn more!

 
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