After a battle with advanced gum disease, seven of my upper teeth are missing. I still have my two front teeth, but gum loss created a gap between them. I want dental implants, but my dentist says my bone won’t support them, so I can get partial dentures, which are more affordable. I know that if I try to close the gap, I will need braces and more partial dentures after my teeth are straight. It’s just the expense of all this that scares me. Are partial dentures my only option? I’m not sure what to do. Thank you. Vickie from Columbia, SC

Vickie,

Thank you for your question, Vickie.

We understand your concerns about your smile and your oral health. Although your dentist is offering the most affordable option, we recommend that you look for a dentist who is just as—or more—concerned about your appearance as you are.

Dr. Perry would need to examine your mouth, teeth, and x-rays for an accurate diagnosis and treatment options. Still, two options that will give you a better smile than a partial denture are an implant-supported bridge or individual implants.

Before offering a solution, a dentist will need to gather more information, including:

• A comprehensive examination
• A CT scan to measure your bone volume
• The size of your front teeth
• The size of the gap between them

We recommend getting an opinion from a skilled cosmetic dentist concerned about your appearance but will work with you to make dental implants or whatever treatment you choose affordable. After diagnosis, the dentist can explain if you can complete treatment in phases. Financing and payment plans will help you pay for care over time without accumulating a lot of debt.

 

Ryan Perry, DDS, a Baton Rouge dentist, sponsors this post.