Replacing missing or damaged teeth is key to restoring your smile, oral health, and overall quality of life. Missing teeth can lead to secondary dental health concerns that could have a lasting impact on your health. Patients with missing teeth are more prone to gum disease, additional tooth loss, and bone loss. Fortunately, patients have options for tooth replacement, including dental implants and dentures.
Dental implants are often the popular treatment option for those missing one or two teeth. Most people do not know that dental implants are a replacement option for those missing an entire arch or row of teeth. Dr. Robert Gauthier offers complete treatment for dental implants in his Northborough, MA dentist office.
He has the advanced training and experience needed to place dental implants, including implants capable of securing top or bottom dentures. People who have been struggling with poor-fitting removable dentures or who are missing an entire arch of teeth should consider implant-supported dentures. When considering your options, please consider dental implants vs. dentures.
What Are Dentures?
Dentures are false teeth and are traditionally the only option for people missing most or all of their teeth. They are made in a dental lab with impressions of your mouth. Dentures are made up of a base typically made of acrylic resin and metal that will rest on your gums. Dentures cost significantly less than dental implants in the beginning, and they will be ready for you in about 3-6 weeks. However, there are many cons to choosing dentures:
- People will notice they are false teeth due to them being bulky.
- Depending on the type of denture you need, it may take up a lot of space in your mouth.
- You need adhesive to keep them in place in your mouth.
- Caring for and wearing dentures will take some time to get used to.
- Dentures can slip around in your mouth, making eating or speaking difficult.
- Dentures will deliver about a 30-40% normal chewing function.
- Without a tooth root in your jawbone, the bone will diminish. This means your dentures will need to be rebased as your jawbone diminishes and the fit changes.
- Dentures require periodic maintenance.
- Dentures do not compare to fully functioning, natural teeth anchored to your jawbone.
What are dental implants?
A dental implant refers to a titanium screw-like post the dentist surgically implants into your jawbone just below the gum line. This post fuses with your jawbone creating a permanent substitute tooth root. When an entire arch of teeth is missing, implant dentures are an alternative to dentures.
Dr. Gauthier will implant as few as four strategically placed dental implants at his Northborough, MA dentist office. These implants will secure a cosmetic denture. There are a few cons to denture implants, which include cost and time to complete. Dental implants involve a surgical procedure that will require some healing time.
This makes it a lengthy and expensive process. But the pros to choosing dental implants are extensive, especially compared with dentures.
- Your overall quality of life is much greater.
- Dental implants are secure because we implant them surgically. They will not slip or wiggle in your mouth.
- The presence of the implant in your jawbone will prevent bone deterioration.
- Dental implants are not bulky and give you a natural appearance and smile.
- Fixed denture implants deliver 100% normal chewing function because they are surgically implanted and sturdy.
- Dental implants offer patients over a 95% success rate.
- Dental implants are comfortable and feel just like your natural teeth.
- Your dental implants can last a lifetime with proper care and regular dentist visits.