Dental Implants Vs. Dentures

 

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.