Why Should I Choose Dental Implants over Dentures?

Until the advent of dental implants, the only option for replacing a full arch of missing teeth was dentures. Used for decades in the field of dentistry, traditional dentures offer an affordable and quick solution for missing teeth. However, dental implants have been a game-changer. While dentures can restore appearance and limited function, implants can reestablish beautiful aesthetics, full function, and optimal oral health. Fortunately, Dr. Helen Ragsdale offers both removable and fixed implant-supported restorations at our Austin, TX practice.

Top Five Reasons to Choose Dental Implants Over Dentures

There are plenty of reasons to choose implants over dentures. For example, dental implants:

• Prevent bone loss: Because implants mimic the micromovements of natural teeth roots, they preserve natural jawbone structure. In contrast, patients who wear dentures typically experience significant bone atrophy over the years.
• Offer a natural-looking result: Implants fuse with the natural bone tissue. Therefore, they look and feel just like the real thing.
• Are long-lasting: Dental implants currently boast the highest success rate of any teeth replacement option. While dentures must be replaced every seven to 10 years, implants can last forever if cared for properly.
• Preserve healthy structures: Partial dentures can cause the natural teeth to weaken over time. Dental implants do not require the support of the adjacent teeth, therefore leaving healthy structures intact.
• Easy care and maintenance: Caring for dentures can be daunting, especially with messy adhesives often necessary to hold them firmly in place. Patients who choose dental implants can brush and floss like normal.

About Traditional Dentures

Before we delve into the many advantages of dental implants, we will briefly discuss the pros and cons of conventional dentures. Crafted from a variety of materials, ranging from acrylic to ceramic, dentures rest atop the gums for support. These prostheses typically have a lower upfront cost compared to other teeth replacement alternatives. However, dentures must be replaced every seven to ten years on average. Therefore, the long-term costs can add up over time.

Following tooth loss, gradual bone deterioration is a natural byproduct. As a result, dentures tend to shift and slip over time as the underlying bone structure changes. This is one of the most common complaints among long-term denture wearers. To address these changes in fit, patients who wear dentures typically require a reline at least every two years and will eventually necessitate a replacement when recommended by their doctor.

About Implant-Supported Dentures

The emergence of dental implants literally changed the way we replace teeth. Because implants actively replace and mimic natural teeth roots, they can serve as excellent anchors for a denture. In fact, many of our patients have opted to upgrade their traditional prosthesis for an implant-supported restoration.

To begin the process, dental implants will be surgically placed within the jawbone. The number of implants necessary will depend on the unique needs of each individual. While some patients can achieve their desired results with only two implants per arch, others may require four to six. Once the implants are healed, a denture can “snap” onto them for support. As a result, the dentures can be removed for easy cleaning, but will never shift or slip out of place when wearing them.

Fixed Full-Arch Restoration with Dental Implants

While some patients enjoy a removable prosthesis, some desire a permanent solution. With dental implants, this is possible as well. Generally, four to six implants are needed to support a full arch of missing teeth. Once the posts have adequately healed, a restoration can be attached using either dental cement or screw-retention. The result is a beautiful smile that looks and feels completely natural.

Who is a Candidate for Dental Implants?

Patients considering dental implant treatment should have sufficient jawbone density. Because an implant must be completely housed by healthy bone, those who have experienced significant bone loss may not qualify. However, certain preparatory procedures, such as bone grafts or sinus lifts, can increase patient eligibility for implants.

In addition, candidates should be in good overall and should not have any medical conditions that could impede the results of treatment. If gum disease or tooth decay is a concern, these issues will need to be treated first, as oral bacteria can compromise the success of your implants.

What about “One-Day Implant Dentures”?

A common theme in dental marketing is the advertisement of same-day implant dentures. Essentially, patients are promised a brand-new set of implant-based teeth in a single appointment. Unfortunately, this is often simply a ploy to bring more patients through the door. In fact, many of the practices that advertise one-day implants fail to reveal the total cost of treatment. Because each patient is unique, the procedure can vary significantly for every individual. Therefore, fees typically cannot be quoted until a full assessment has been made. Furthermore, the “instant denture” received in most cases is a temporary one. Generally, the final denture is a separate fee, and is delivered once the initial healing has taken place. At our practice, we believe in cost transparency. We strive to communicate openly and honestly with our patients so they know exactly what to expect.

Contact Us for More Information

If you are tired of conventional dentures that wobble and slip, dental implants could be the solution for you. To learn more, schedule a consultation at our Austin, TX practice by calling 512-346-4690.