DENTURES & BRIDGES

Dentures and Bridges

Dentures are made of acrylic, which wears out over time. A dental bridge or bridges are used to replace and fix a missing tooth or missing teeth.

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Replacing Old Dentures

Patients who have finally decided to correct that introverting smile are completely thrilled with their results as evidenced by the dramatic before and after photos that patients can view. Many bring their spouses, friends or children in for evaluation and treatment so they can also experience the relief of finally being able to laugh at jokes without hiding their full smile.

Dentures are made of acrylic, which wears out over time. Hundreds of thousands of chewing cycles will wear out the biting surfaces of the teeth, and flatten out the back teeth. This in turn may wear out the front teeth and makes them much shorter. Also, acrylic stains and becomes brittle over time.

Dentures may need replacing due to poor fit. Poor suction that needs adhesive to secure your dentures may be aggravating. Denture relines may be necessary over time to make them fit better. Studies have shown that the supporting bony structures underneath dentures resorb over time causing dentures to fit less securely over time. Dr. Curtis G. Lee is an expert at fabrication of dentures whether it be full dentures or partial dentures. Impression technique is paramount in making dentures that fit as well as your anatomy allows. We are not satisfied until you are pleased with your final result.

Bridges

A dental bridge or bridges are used to replace and fix a missing tooth or missing teeth.  When teeth are missing, they need to be replaced to prevent future problems such as:

  • Shifting teeth
  • Bone loss in your jaw
  • Difficulty chewing
  • Clenching and grinding your teeth
  • Pain in your TMJ (jaw joint)

Your teeth will begin to shift and extrude out of their sockets when a tooth or teeth are missing because the biting forces change.  When your biting forces change, a chain reaction of problems will occur depending on how long you delay getting a dental bridge.

Shifted teeth or teeth that extrude out of their sockets help create places around your teeth for plaque and bacteria to hide.  The accumulation of plaque and bacteria around your teeth can cause tooth decay, periodontal gum disease, bad breath and dental cavities.  Also, improper chewing forces can lead to loose teeth and even bone loss in your jaw, especially when tooth decay, periodontal gum disease or dental cavities exists.  Chewing food is difficult when you have an uneven bite and may cause bruxism or pain in your TMJ (jaw joint).

To determine if a dental bridge or dental bridges is right for you, please call to schedule an appointment with us.   Dr. Curtis G.Lee is a certified dentist that provides general, cosmetic, and sports dentistry services in the Albuquerque area.

At your appointment, we will perform a thorough examination, which will include taking x-rays and examining your teeth to determine if and what type of dental bridge is right for you.