artificial teeth

Types of artificial teeth

Artificial teeth are man-made teeth designed to replace missing or damaged natural teeth. They come in different types tailored to individual dental needs and preferences. Here are the main types of artificial teeth:

• Dentures:

  Dentures are removable dental appliances that can replace missing teeth and restore one's smile. There are two main types of dentures:

  • Complete Dentures:

    Complete dentures are used when all natural teeth are missing. They rest on the gums of the dental arch and create a seal to hold them. The gum ridges support the denture and replace the lost teeth. Complete dentures can be conventional, made after teeth are gone, or immediate, made before the teeth are lost so they can be worn right away. Conventional complete dentures take some time after tooth removal to make, while immediate dentures can be worn immediately after teeth are removed. This prevents people from being toothless and having gaps in their smiles. Complete dentures restore appearance by filling in facial contours and providing a natural-looking smile. They also help with chewing and speaking functions that missing teeth would impair. Complete dentures offer a cost-effective, non-invasive solution for tooth replacement when all teeth are gone.

  • Partial Dentures:

    Partial dentures are used when some natural teeth remain in the upper or lower jaw. They fill the spaces created by missing teeth and prevent the remaining teeth from shifting. Partial dentures have replacement teeth, called pontics, attached to a gum-colored base that rests on the gums. They can have a metal framework for strength or be made entirely of plastic. Partial dentures are removable but help restore function and appearance by replacing lost teeth. They allow chewing and speaking and help keep facial features from sagging due to tooth loss. Partial dentures are a cost-effective way to replace several missing teeth while avoiding more complex treatments like bridges or implants.

• Dental Bridges:

  Dental bridges are fixed appliances that span the gap where one or more teeth are missing. They consist of two or more crowns placed on the teeth or implants on either side of the gap, anchoring the bridge in place. The middle part of the bridge has artificial teeth, called pontics, that replace the missing ones. Bridges help restore the ability to chew and speak properly and maintain the facial shape by filling in the empty spaces left by lost teeth. They also keep remaining natural teeth from drifting out of position. Getting a dental bridge requires grinding down the adjacent teeth to fit crowns, or alternatively, dental implants can be used instead of natural teeth to support the bridge. Bridges provide a permanent solution for tooth loss without the need for removable appliances like dentures.

• Dental Implants:

  Dental implants are artificial tooth roots placed in the jawbone surgically to replace missing teeth. They provide a fixed and permanent option for tooth replacement that closely resembles natural teeth. An implant consists of a titanium post that fuses with the bone tissue through a process called osseointegration, anchoring it securely in place. Once healed, a crown is attached to the implant, restoring function and appearance. Implants help maintain jawbone level and support for facial structure, preventing sagging over time like dentures. They allow normal eating, speaking, and smiling without removable parts. Implants don't rely on adjacent teeth for support like bridges do. With proper care, dental implants can last many years or even a lifetime as a successful long-term solution for tooth loss.

How to choose artificial teeth

When choosing artificial teeth, it is essential to consider the following factors:

• Denture Base: The base of the denture is made from acrylic or metal. Acrylic bases are lightweight and comfortable, while metal bases are more durable and secure. Each material has pros and cons, so people need to consider their needs and preferences when choosing between them.
• Implant Compatibility: Artificial teeth should be compatible with dental implants if one gets them. The artificial teeth will attach securely to the implants to provide stability and support. People need to ensure that the artificial teeth they choose will work well with the implants for effective dental functioning.
• Natural Appearance: Artificial teeth should look as natural as possible. They should match the color, shape, and size of a person's natural teeth to maintain a natural smile and appearance. People need to consider the aesthetics of the artificial teeth to ensure they blend well with the rest of the teeth.
• Durability: Artificial teeth should be durable and withstand normal chewing and biting forces without easily wearing out. People need to choose artificial teeth that will last a long time and not need frequent replacements or repairs.
• Comfort and Fit: Artificial teeth should fit well and feel comfortable in the mouth. Poorly fitting teeth can cause soreness, irritation, or difficulty speaking and eating. People need to ensure that the artificial teeth they choose are customized to their mouth for better comfort and fit.
• Functionality: Consider how well the artificial teeth will restore normal dental functions such as chewing and speaking. They should perform these functions as well as the natural teeth, allowing a person to eat a wide range of food and speak clearly.
• Maintenance: Find out how to clean and maintain the artificial teeth. Some teeth may require special cleaning procedures or tools, while others may be easier to care for. People need to consider the time and effort required to maintain the artificial teeth so they can keep them clean and in good condition.
• Cost: Consider the cost of the artificial teeth and any additional expenses for their installation, maintenance, or dental visits. People need to choose artificial teeth that fit their budgets and consider their long-term value compared to the initial costs.

How to use, install and product safety

Using artificial teeth depends on the type. Dentures are removed daily, cleaned, and soaked overnight. Users should adapt to chewing and speaking gradually. Denture adhesive can be used for a secure fit. Follow the dentist's instructions for care and maintenance.

Dental implants require a surgical procedure to insert the titanium post into the jawbone. After placement, the healing process allows for osseointegration, where the implant fuses with the bone. Once healed, the prosthetic crown is attached to the implant. Regular oral hygiene practices, such as brushing and flossing, are essential to maintaining oral health around the implant.

Bridges involve the dentist anchoring them to the adjacent natural teeth. The dentist prepares the neighboring teeth by shaping them to accommodate dental crowns. Then, the bridge is cemented in place, filling the gap where the missing teeth were located. Oral hygiene practices, including brushing and flossing, should be followed to ensure the longevity of the bridge.

It is essential to product safety for artificial teeth to ensure their quality and safety. For artificial teeth like dentures, users should avoid exposing them to extreme temperatures, which could cause warping or damage the material. Also, users should avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners on artificial teeth, which could affect the surface and compromise the material's integrity. It is essential to follow the dentist's recommendations for wear time, especially for new dentures, to prevent tissue irritation and ensure proper adaptation.

Functions, features, and designs of artificial teeth

Functions

Artificial teeth perform several essential functions that mimic natural teeth's role in oral health. They allow for chewing and biting food, ensuring proper nutrition and diet. They help pronounce words clearly, preventing speech impediments. Replacement teeth maintain facial structure and prevent sagging, preserving one's smile and aesthetic appeal.

Features

Some features of artificial teeth include the following:

• Natural appearance: Artificial teeth are designed to resemble natural teeth closely. They come in different shapes, sizes, and shades to match the existing teeth and provide a natural smile.
• Durability: Replacement teeth are made from strong materials that can withstand daily wear and pressure from chewing food. They are designed to last a long with proper care and maintenance.
• Comfortable fit: Artificial teeth are custom-made to fit well in the mouth and not cause discomfort. A good fit helps prevent sore spots, rubbing, or irritation in the gums and gives a sense of normality while talking and eating.
• Stain resistance: Some artificial teeth are made from stain-resistant materials, helping maintain their color and appearance over time. This feature is vital for keeping an attractive smile and oral hygiene.
• Functional restoration: Artificial teeth restore lost functions, enabling efficient chewing and biting of food and helping with speech clarity. They help return the mouth's functional abilities and ensure the replacement teeth work together like natural ones.

Design

The design of artificial teeth depends on the type and the individual's needs. Dentists consider the size, shape, and color of natural teeth when designing artificial ones so they can look and feel like the real ones. The materials used to make artificial teeth are molded and shaped to resemble natural teeth. The design aims to create a natural-looking replacement that fits comfortably and restores the function and aesthetics of the smile.

Q&A

Q1. How long do artificial teeth last?

A1. Artificial teeth can last for 5-15 years, depending on the type, quality and usage. Premium-quality dentures and dental prosthetics used with proper oral hygiene and care can last for many years.

Q2. Can one eat natural food with artificial teeth?

A2. One can eat natural food with artificial teeth, but it requires getting used to and adjusting the eating habits. Foods like raw vegetables, sticky foods, and hard foods should be chewed carefully so the artificial teeth don't get damaged.

Q3. Do artificial teeth need special care?

A3. Yes, artificial teeth need special care to keep them clean and maintain their lifespan. Denture wearers should clean their dentures daily with a soft brush and mild soap and water. They should also soak them in water or a cleansing solution at night to prevent them from drying out and misshaping.

Q4. Can artificial teeth develop cavities?

A4. Artificial teeth cannot develop cavities because they are made from non-biodegradable materials that do not support the action of cavity-causing bacteria. However, the natural teeth and gums surrounding them can be prone to cavities and other infections if proper oral hygiene is not observed.

Q5. How much does getting artificial teeth cost?

A5. The cost of getting artificial teeth varies greatly depending on the type, quality and complexity of the dental procedure. In most cases, premium-quality dental implants are more expensive than dentures and dental bridges because they are permanent and require more advanced surgical procedures for their installation.