Both dentures and dental implants have pros and cons, but ultimately the best option for you will depend on your situation. We have compared the most popular treatment options if you’re looking for tooth replacement to improve your smile.
What is a bone graft?
A bone grafting is a common oral health procedure in which bone tissue is transplanted from one area of the body to another to help encourage bone regeneration. The bone graft can come from your own body, or it can come from a donor. The bone graft is used when there is inadequate bone structure to support dental implants, or there is damage from periodontal and gum disease. In some cases, the bone graft can also help to improve the appearance of your smile. The decision to have a bone graft is made by you and your oral surgeon, and it will be based on your individual needs and goals.
Dentures
A denture is a removable prosthetic oral device that replaces missing teeth and damaged or decayed gums. There are a few different kinds of dentures, but they all serve the same purpose; to replace missing teeth and provide a strong, healthy alternative.
Types of Dentures
There are two popular types of dentures: complete dentures and partial dentures. Complete dentures replace all of your natural teeth. Partial dentures only cover some of your teeth. They may be fixed or removable. Fixed partial dentures are permanently attached to your upper or lower jaw. Removable partial dentures are held in place by clasps and retainers.
Complete Dentures
Complete dentures are made from acrylic resin, which is strong, durable, and comfortable. Making them involves taking impressions of your mouth and using them to make a mold. Once the mold has been created, it’s sent to a lab, where the denture is cast into shape. After this, the dentist will fit the denture with attachments for stability and retention. Finally, the denture is polished and finished.
Partial Dentures
Partials can be either fixed or removable. If you have lost several teeth but still need to keep some of your original teeth, you might consider getting a set of partials. These are usually made from plastic and metal. You would wear them while eating, speaking, smiling, and laughing.
Are dentures right for you?
Dentures are a popular choice for people who are missing sets of teeth rather than a few here and there. They can easily be removed and cleaned throughout the day, providing patients with an affordable and convenient option.
However, if you have had extensive gum disease, you should not get dentures until after undergoing periodontal treatment. This includes scaling and polishing your teeth, removing plaque, and treating any pockets that have formed around your teeth.
Dental Implants
Dental implants are a great alternative to dentures and dental bridges and provide a more permanent solution. The most common type of dental implant used today is titanium posts inserted into the bone, where they fuse with the surrounding bone tissue. The post then serves as a base for a replacement tooth root. This process takes place over several months. Once the new tooth root has fused with the bone, it becomes part of your natural mouth structure. Dental implants can help preserve the jaw bone and prevent further bone loss, which can deteriorate your facial structure.
Should I choose dental implants over dentures?
Both dentures and implants are great options when it comes to replacing missing teeth. Each one has its advantages and disadvantages. Dental implants are strong, durable, and they look and feel just like your natural teeth. But, they are more expensive than dentures and require oral surgery and a more extensive healing process. Many patients still prefer them over dentures because they last longer and provide better support.
On the other hand, traditional dentures are easier to clean and maintain. They also allow you to eat normally and eat all of the same foods you loved before without the possibility of surgery or a long healing process. Conventional dentures can be molded and placed fairly quickly. But many people don’t want to deal with the messiness of denture adhesive or the possibility of the dentures loosening if the adhesive isn’t applied correctly.
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