Having the self-confidence to smile for a
picture or at a co-workers joke can be difficult for those with missing
or broken teeth. Whether decaying teeth and gums from Periodontal
Disease or an accident leaves someone with injured teeth, it can be an
embarrassment and frustration. Fortunately, modern dentistry has many
options to choose from. Two common solutions are dental implants and
dentures. While they may sound similar, these two technologies are quite
different.
One
of the greatest differences between dental implants and dentures is the
permanency of each. While dentures can be removed from the mouth for
cleaning and repair, a dental implant is permanently secured into the
jaw through oral surgery. Over two to six months, the implants, or
screws, will mold to the jawbone and eventually createattachments for
other artificial teeth.
During
the bonding period, temporary tooth replacements are placed on top of
the implants to help the patient eat, drink and smile. Once the jawbone
has fully bonded with the implants in the jaw, the patient has
artificial teeth roots. Next, the abutment is set. This small connector
then attaches to the replacement tooth, known as the crown. Once these
steps have been completed, a patient with an implant is left with a
secure tooth replacement for decades.
Another
difference to take note of is the materials used to create dentures and
implants. The implant anchors are generally made from titanium while
the crowns are made from porcelain or ceramic. In contrast, crowns for
dentures can be made from sturdy plastic or porcelain while the base is
usually made from a base of acrylic.
When
choosing dentures, patients can typically choose from full, partial or a
fixed bridge. A full denture replaces either a full set of upper or
lower teeth. When a patient is ready for full dentures, adhesive will be
temporarily used to keep them in place. Once the muscles in the mouth
and cheeks have adjusted to the denture, the adhesive will no longer be
needed. A partial denture replaces just a few teeth when there are
enough natural teeth still left in place. A fixed bridge is an
alternative to an implant as it utilizes natural teeth on both sides of
the missing tooth. The replacement tooth is cemented into place while
the natural teeth support it.
When
it comes to choosing between dental implants and dentures, patients
need to discuss these differences with their dental provider. To learn
more about dental implants in Cary, check out this website. Here you can explore additional information about dental implants and dentures and how they can help you smile big and bright.
