Do you have missing teeth? Maybe you’ve put off replacing them because you don’t like visiting the dentist, or you assume you can’t afford the necessary procedures. But the problem of missing teeth is not just cosmetic — far from it.
Avoiding treatment may cost you far more in the long run. The teeth in your mouth support the muscles and skin of your face. If you have too many gaps in your smile, your cheeks and mouth may actually begin to sink, making you look far older than you are. Replacing your teeth may improve your ability to chew and speak. And did you know an absent tooth can lead to bone loss in the jawbone and affect your remaining teeth? They may start to move into the empty space, leading to all sorts of complications.
At Kirchner Dental, we have a tooth-replacement option to work for your situation and your budget. If you live in the Jeffersonville, IN region, call us at 812-913-6093 to book a consultation.
Dental Implants
A dental implant is a replacement tooth root made out of titanium that’s topped with a crown. This is the closest you’ll get to your real tooth in terms of stability, functionality, and appearance. Dr. Kirchner will partner with a local surgeon to place the dental implant into your jawbone. The site will need a little time to heal, then we will craft a custom crown right in the office with our state-of-the-art CEREC machine. Voila! You have a brand-new tooth that’s as strong as your natural teeth.
Dentures
What if you have many teeth missing? We have several options to restore your smile.
- Full removable dentures replace a whole arch of teeth. A full denture consists of a gum-colored mold in which are set artificial teeth. Thanks to advanced digital imaging and manufacturing technology, today’s dentures are far more comfortable and realistic-looking than dentures of the past. Full dentures fit snugly in place due to their precise custom fit, with nontoxic denture glue offering additional stability.
- Partial dentures are similar in construction to full dentures, but they replace only a few teeth. They stay put with the help of metal clasps that attach to your natural teeth.
- Implant-supported dentures connect to dental implants with a metal bar attachment. These dentures offer far more stability than traditional dentures (there is no chance of them slipping or falling out), but they can be removed only by your dentist.
- Implant-retained dentures also combine with dental implants for added stability, but they use a ball-and-socket mechanism. They are removeable by you for cleaning.
All-on-4® Implants
All-on-4 dental implants is a patented method for replacing a full arch of missing teeth. The system utilizes four dental implants that are surgically inserted into your jawbone. The two back dental implants are placed at a particular angle designed to provide maximum stability, even when you have suffered bone loss in your jaw.
Like implant-retained or implant-supported dentures, All-on-4 uses replacement teeth set into a gum-colored base. But unlike dentures, the All-on-4 appliance will not cover up your palate. This enables you to taste food much better.
All-on-4 implants are not removable, so there is no danger of them slipping out or sliding around in your mouth. They feel much like natural teeth, and allow you to eat what you want and clean your teeth normally. Like all dental implants, they promote bone health. When you bite, the force is channeled into the jawbone, as is the case with natural teeth. With dentures, the force goes into the gum tissue.
Teeth in a Day™
You are surely thrilled to be getting a brand-new set of teeth. Unfortunately, when you have dental implants placed, you typically have to wait some time for your permanent arch of teeth to be constructed and ready go.
This is where Teeth in a Day come in. And they are just what they sound like. The very day you have your dental implant surgery, we will fit you with a full set of replacement teeth so you don’t have to go a single day without a beautiful smile.
Teeth in a Day will be placed by Dr. Kirchner and will be removable only by him. They are temporary — designed to be placeholders until your permanent restoration can be placed — but they look great, function well, and are secure in your mouth.
So what are you waiting for? If you have missing teeth and live in the Jeffersonville, IN area, fill out Kirchner Dental’s online form to request a consultation. Or call our office at 812-913-6093.