missing teeth Archives - Reedley Family Dental

Dentures in Reedley, CA

Dentures are a way to replace missing teeth that could be lost due to trauma, decay or advanced gum disease. The main benefit is that you will have a set of fully functioning teeth that are custom fit to you. Today’s dentures are more natural looking and comfortable. Dental technology has advanced with the use of new materials, which means a vastly improved set of dentures. There are two main types of dentures- full and partial. Both types are made in a lab, based on a mold of your mouth.

Traditional Dentures

This is when all the teeth have been removed and the tissue is given time to heal before a full denture is placed. The healing time is usually 6-8 weeks before the gingiva is fully healed. During this time you would be without teeth. This method has not been used as much in recent years.

Immediate Full Dentures

Prior to having your teeth extracted, your dentist will take measurements to have dentures fitted for your mouth. After removing the teeth, the dentures are immediately placed. After the appointment, usually, dentures will be left in your mouth, undisturbed, for 24-48 hours. After that time, you will need a follow-up visit with your dentist to access your healing progress. Adjustments to your denture over the next 4-6 weeks are typical and expected as the mouth heals.

Partial Dentures

This option is available when all teeth do not need to be extracted. A partial denture can replace multiple missing teeth if other options are not feasible.

How to Care for Dentures

Keep your dentures clean! Plaque builds up on dentures just like natural teeth. Unless plaque is removed from your dentures, it can spread to your natural teeth and gums causing gum disease and cavities.

Remove your dentures every night.
Brush your natural teeth and your gums with a soft toothbrush.
Soak your dentures overnight in a special cleaner (a denture cleanser), in warm water, or in a half-and-half mixture of warm water and vinegar. If your dentures have metal clasps, soak in warm water only.

See your dentist regularly because your mouth is always changing, therefore your dentures will need some adjusting from time to time to make sure it fits well. If you have a partial denture, regular check-ups are important to make sure that your natural teeth and gums get the care that is needed.

If you are looking for dentures in Reedley, CA, Reedley Family Dental can evaluate your teeth, gums, and overall oral health to help determine which denture option may be appropriate for replacing missing teeth. Depending on the number of missing teeth and your individual needs, partial or full dentures may be considered to restore your ability to eat, speak, and smile with greater confidence.

For patients looking for additional stability, implant-retained dentures may be another option to discuss. Implant-supported restorations use dental implants to provide support for a denture and may be appropriate for some patients after a comprehensive evaluation.

Traditional dentures are not the only option for replacing missing teeth. Dental implants may provide another approach for replacing individual missing teeth or supporting certain restorations. A dental bridge can also replace one or more missing teeth by using the surrounding teeth or restorations for support.

Regular dental examinations can help evaluate the condition and fit of your dentures over time. Your dentist can discuss your available tooth-replacement options and develop a treatment plan based on your oral health, number of missing teeth, and personal goals.

Dental Bridges in Reedley, CA

A dental bridge is a restoration that replaces one or more missing teeth. It extends across an area that has no teeth and is typically made up of an artificial tooth fused between two crowns. Bridges are made from gold, metal alloys, porcelain or a combination to ensure that they are strong and durable. The process of creating a bridge begins by creating abutments out of your existing teeth where the bridge will be attached. This process is identical to how crowns are prepared (see crowns). The dentist will often remove and replace any old restorations in these teeth to ensure that there will be no decay present underneath the bridge. These are called build-ups. After the abutments have been created, a mold is taken of the area which is sent to a dental lab. The lab is able to use the mold to create a custom bridge that will fit properly and will feel like your natural teeth. The bridge consists of two crowns on either end to place the abutments, and a pontic – a solid tooth shaped piece – that is the new tooth replacing your missing one.

If you are looking for dental bridges in Reedley, CA, Reedley Family Dental can evaluate your teeth and discuss whether a dental bridge may be an appropriate option for replacing one or more missing teeth. A dental bridge uses a replacement tooth or teeth supported by the surrounding teeth or dental restorations to help restore the appearance and function of your smile.

Replacing missing teeth can also help maintain more balanced chewing and prevent neighboring teeth from shifting into the space. Your dentist will evaluate the condition of the surrounding teeth, gums, bite, and available support before recommending a treatment option.

For patients who may benefit from a different tooth-replacement approach, dental implants can provide another option for replacing missing teeth. If the supporting teeth require additional protection or restoration, dental crowns may also be part of the treatment plan.

Patients who are missing several or all of their teeth may also want to explore dentures as another tooth-replacement option. A comprehensive dental evaluation can help determine which restorative solution is appropriate for your individual needs.

We will then fit you with a temporary bridge while we wait for the lab to craft your permanent bridge. This will protect the abutment and exposed gum area and look more appealing than having a missing tooth. When the permanent bridge has been created, we will have a follow-up visit to seat the bridge. It will be placed on the abutments, and the dentist will then use an adhesive for the final placement of the bridge.

The bridge may take a while to get used to, but after a few days, it should feel like your own teeth. You should eat soft foods for the first few days. After a short while, you will be able to eat whatever you want with no issues. If you are missing a tooth, you should strongly consider having it replaced, because missing teeth can cause structural changes to your mouth and jaw, as well as making it difficult to eat or speak properly. Set up an appointment today to restore your smile.

Mini Implants for Missing Teeth in Reedley, CA

Mini implants can be an option for patients looking for a smaller implant solution to help replace missing teeth or improve the stability of certain dental restorations. At Reedley Family Dental, mini implants use a titanium post and an attachment system to help connect a replacement tooth or restoration to the implant. Whether mini implants are appropriate depends on your oral health, available bone, the location of the missing tooth, and your overall treatment needs.

If you are considering tooth replacement, you may also want to learn about traditional dental implants and how they compare with other options. Patients who have experienced bone loss may also benefit from learning about bone grafting before implant treatment. For patients replacing several or all missing teeth, dentures may provide another tooth-replacement option. If tooth removal is necessary before restoration, explore our tooth extraction services as well.

Mini implants are also less expensive than regular dental implants. Ask Reedley Family Dental if mini implants are right for you. Give us a call at (559) 637-0123 for more information on mini implants.

Dental Implants in Reedley, CA

Missing one or more teeth can affect much more than your smile. Tooth loss may make it harder to chew comfortably, affect the way your teeth come together, and change the appearance of your smile. If you are looking for a long-term tooth replacement option, dental implants may be worth discussing with your dentist.

At Reedley Family Dental, we provide dental implant consultations in Reedley, CA to help patients understand their tooth replacement options. Dental implants are designed to replace the root portion of a missing tooth and can support a restoration such as a dental crown, bridge, or implant-retained denture.

Every patient has different oral health needs. Before recommending dental implants, our dental team can evaluate your teeth, gums, jawbone, and overall treatment needs to determine whether implants may be appropriate for you.

What Are Dental Implants?

A dental implant is a small implant fixture that is placed into the jawbone to provide support for a replacement tooth or dental restoration. Unlike a traditional dental bridge, an implant can replace the root portion of a missing tooth without requiring the neighboring teeth to serve as the primary support.

A typical dental implant restoration may involve several components:

Implant: The portion placed in the jawbone.
Abutment: A connector that attaches the implant to the restoration.
Dental restoration: The visible replacement tooth or teeth, such as a crown, bridge, or denture.

For a single missing tooth, an implant may be restored with a dental crown. Patients who are missing several teeth may have other options, including implant-supported restorations or a dental bridge. Patients who are missing most or all of their teeth may also want to discuss implant-retained dentures.

Learn more about our dental crowns and dental bridges as part of your tooth replacement options.

Who May Benefit From Dental Implants?

Dental implants may be considered for adults who have lost one or more teeth because of decay, trauma, gum disease, or other dental conditions.

You may want to schedule a dental implant consultation if you:

Have one or more missing teeth
Have difficulty chewing because of missing teeth
Are unhappy with the appearance of a missing tooth
Want to learn about alternatives to a traditional bridge
Have loose or uncomfortable dentures
Are considering a more stable option for replacing multiple missing teeth

However, not every patient is automatically a candidate for dental implants. Your dentist will need to evaluate your oral health, available bone, gum health, and other factors before recommending treatment.

If you have experienced significant bone loss after losing a tooth, bone grafting may be discussed as part of your treatment plan.

Benefits of Dental Implants

Dental implants can offer several advantages as a tooth replacement option.

Support for Replacement Teeth

An implant can provide a stable foundation for a dental restoration. Depending on your needs, the implant may support a crown, bridge, or implant-retained denture.

Restore Chewing Function

Missing teeth can make certain foods more difficult to chew. Replacing missing teeth may help restore your ability to eat more comfortably.

Replace the Root Portion of a Missing Tooth

Traditional dentures and bridges primarily replace the visible portion of missing teeth. Dental implants are designed to provide support within the jawbone, similar to the role of a natural tooth root.

Improve the Appearance of Your Smile

A missing tooth can affect the appearance of your smile. An implant-supported restoration can be designed to blend with the surrounding teeth and provide a natural-looking result.

Options for Different Levels of Tooth Loss

Dental implants can be used in different treatment situations. A patient missing a single tooth may receive an implant-supported crown, while patients missing several or all teeth may have other implant-supported options.

Our team can help you understand which options may be appropriate for your specific situation.

Dental Implant Options in Reedley

There is no single implant solution that works for every patient. Treatment depends on the number of missing teeth, the condition of your jawbone, your oral health, and the type of restoration needed.

Single-Tooth Dental Implants

If you have lost one tooth, an implant-supported crown may be considered as a replacement option.

The implant provides support below the gumline while the crown replaces the visible portion of the tooth.

A single-tooth implant may be discussed as an alternative to a traditional bridge when the surrounding teeth do not need to be used as bridge supports.

Multiple Dental Implants

Patients who are missing several teeth may have different treatment options depending on the location of the missing teeth and the condition of their remaining teeth.

In some situations, multiple implants can be used to support individual restorations or other types of tooth replacement.

Our team can evaluate your smile and explain which options may be suitable for your needs.

Implant-Retained Dentures

Patients who are missing many or all of their teeth may want to consider implant-retained dentures.

Unlike conventional dentures that rest primarily on the gums, implant-retained dentures are supported by dental implants. This can provide additional stability for certain patients.

Implant-retained dentures may be particularly relevant for patients who want to explore alternatives to traditional removable dentures.

Mini Dental Implants

Mini implants are another option that may be considered in certain situations.

Mini implants are smaller in diameter than conventional dental implants and may be used for specific tooth replacement or denture stabilization situations. Whether mini implants are appropriate depends on factors such as your oral health, available bone, and the type of restoration being considered.

Do I Need Bone Grafting Before Dental Implants?

The jawbone provides important support for dental implants. After a tooth is lost, the bone surrounding the missing tooth may gradually change or lose volume.

If there is not enough bone available for the planned implant, bone grafting may be considered.

Bone grafting can be used in appropriate cases to help rebuild or preserve bone in an area where additional support may be needed for future dental treatment.

Not every implant patient needs a bone graft. Your dentist will evaluate the condition of your jawbone and determine whether additional treatment is necessary.

Dental Implant Consultation and Treatment Planning

The first step is an examination and consultation.

During your visit, your dental team may evaluate:

The number and location of missing teeth
The health of your gums
The condition of your remaining teeth
The amount and quality of available jawbone
Your bite and overall oral health
The type of restoration that may be appropriate

Advanced imaging may also be useful when more detailed information about the teeth and jawbone is needed. Reedley Family Dental offers CBCT imaging as part of its dental technology resources.

A CBCT scan can provide three-dimensional information about the teeth, jawbone, and surrounding structures and may be useful for treatment planning in appropriate cases.

What Is the Dental Implant Process?

Dental implant treatment can vary from patient to patient, but the process generally involves several stages.

1. Consultation and Examination

Your dentist first evaluates your oral health and discusses your goals for replacing missing teeth.

2. Treatment Planning

Your dental team determines whether an implant-supported restoration is appropriate and whether additional procedures, such as bone grafting, may be needed.

3. Implant Placement

The implant fixture is placed into the jawbone as part of the surgical portion of treatment.

4. Healing and Integration

The implant needs time to heal and integrate with the surrounding bone before the final restoration is completed. The exact healing period varies depending on the individual patient and treatment plan.

5. Abutment and Restoration

Once the implant is ready for restoration, an abutment may be used to connect the implant to the replacement tooth or restoration.

For a single missing tooth, the final restoration may be a dental crown. For patients with multiple missing teeth, other options may include bridges or implant-retained dentures.

Dental Implant Recovery and Aftercare

Following implant surgery, your dentist will provide specific instructions based on your procedure.

General post-operative care may include protecting the surgical area, following recommended oral hygiene instructions, and temporarily modifying your diet and physical activity as directed by your dental professional.

Reedley Family Dental also provides after dental implant surgery instructions with general guidance for patients recovering from implant surgery.

Because every procedure is different, always follow the specific instructions provided by your dental team.

Dental Implants vs. Other Tooth Replacement Options

Dental implants are only one approach to replacing missing teeth.

Depending on your situation, your dentist may discuss:

Dental Bridges

A dental bridge can replace one or more missing teeth by using adjacent teeth or other supporting structures.

Traditional Dentures

Dentures may be used to replace several or all missing teeth. Traditional dentures are removable and may be an appropriate option for many patients.

Implant-Retained Dentures

Implant-retained dentures combine the removable-denture concept with implant support for additional stability in appropriate cases.

Dental Implants

Dental implants are designed to replace the root portion of a missing tooth and support a restoration.

The right choice depends on your oral health, number of missing teeth, bone condition, budget, and treatment goals. A dental consultation is the best way to determine which options should be considered for your individual situation.

How Can I Maintain My Dental Implant?

Dental implants still require regular oral care.

After treatment, maintaining good oral hygiene and attending regular dental visits are important for protecting your remaining natural teeth, gums, and implant-supported restorations.

Your long-term oral care may include:

Brushing your teeth regularly
Cleaning between your teeth as recommended
Following your dentist’s implant-care instructions
Maintaining regular dental examinations
Scheduling professional dental cleanings
Addressing gum problems promptly
Avoiding habits that could damage your teeth or restorations

Regular dental hygiene care is an important part of maintaining overall oral health.

Why Choose Reedley Family Dental for Dental Implants?

Choosing a dental office for tooth replacement is an important decision. At Reedley Family Dental, our team provides a range of dental services that can be incorporated into a comprehensive treatment plan.

Our office offers dental services including implants, crowns, bridges, dentures, orthodontics, cosmetic dentistry, periodontal care, and other restorative treatments.

Having multiple services available in one dental office can make it easier to evaluate your overall oral health and discuss different approaches to replacing missing teeth.

Reedley Family Dental also uses dental technology such as CEREC and CBCT imaging when appropriate for diagnosis and treatment planning.

If you are considering dental implants in Reedley, CA, our dental team can evaluate your needs and explain the available options.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Implants

How much do dental implants cost in Reedley, CA?

The cost of dental implants varies depending on the number of implants, type of restoration, condition of the jawbone, and whether additional procedures are needed.

The best way to understand your potential treatment cost is to schedule an examination and receive an individualized treatment plan.

Are dental implants painful?

Dental implant placement is performed with appropriate anesthesia. Some soreness, swelling, or discomfort can occur after treatment, but your dentist will provide instructions for managing your recovery.

Every patient’s experience is different, so discuss any concerns about discomfort with your dental team before treatment.

How long does the dental implant process take?

Treatment time varies. Some patients may need additional procedures or healing periods before the final restoration can be placed.

Your dentist can provide a more specific timeline after evaluating your oral health and treatment needs.

Can I get dental implants if I have bone loss?

Possibly. Bone loss does not automatically mean that dental implants are impossible, but it may affect treatment planning.

Depending on the amount and location of bone loss, bone grafting or another treatment may be considered before implant placement.

Are dental implants better than dentures?

Dental implants and dentures serve different purposes, and neither option is automatically right for every patient.

Dental implants are designed to provide support within the jawbone, while traditional dentures are removable restorations that rest primarily on the gums. Implant-retained dentures provide another option for certain patients.

Your dentist can compare the available choices based on your oral health and goals.

Can dental implants replace multiple missing teeth?

Yes. Dental implants may be used as part of treatment for patients who are missing multiple teeth. Depending on the situation, options can include multiple implant-supported restorations, bridges, or implant-retained dentures.

A consultation is necessary to determine which approach is appropriate.

Schedule a Dental Implant Consultation in Reedley, CA

If you are missing one or more teeth and want to learn more about your tooth replacement options, Reedley Family Dental can evaluate your oral health and discuss whether dental implants may be appropriate for you.

Our dental office is located at:

Reedley Family Dental
929 W Manning Ave.
Reedley, CA 93654

Call (559) 637-0123 to schedule a dental implant consultation.

Whether you are considering a single dental implant, multiple implants, mini implants, or implant-retained dentures, our team can help you understand the available treatment options and the next steps.