There
are several options to consider when replacing missing teeth. Dentures
and dental implants are the two most common solutions. The two differ
in longevity, comfort, confidence while wearing, and effect on your
pocket book.
Dentures
Many people with missing teeth wear conventional upper and lower
dentures or partial dentures and many are unhappy with them. Lower
dentures never fit or feel like natural teeth. They become loose
fitting due to shrinking gum tissue, which then causes irritation to
the mouth, sores and pain. Lower dentures also restrict your ability to
eat or talk as you had with your natural teeth. The only relief is in
using messy dental adhesive to improve the fit.
Upper dentures are a bit different. They are easier to wear because
the suction in upper palate (roof of the mouth) helps keep the denture
in place. But having the palate covered can also reduce the taste of
foods that you are eating. Sores and pain in chewing and talking are
quite frequent as the gum tissue shrinks, and many people suffer from
having to use dental adhesive with upper dentures as well.
Removable partial dentures might be used when only several teeth are
missing. A partial denture anchors to the teeth on either side of the
empty area using a metal clasp. This can be very damaging to these
teeth. Removable partial dentures can also be hard on the gum tissue
when chewing and talking.
The advantage of upper and lower dentures is that they can be
constructed quickly and they initially cost less than implants.
They may last a lifetime, but over the years with aging, new sets need
to be made to fit the changing gum tissue and chewing surfaces of the
teeth in the dentures.
Dental Implants - A Better Solution
With the introduction of dental implants, the need to suffer with
uncomfortable restorations has been eliminated. As our life span has
been increasing, the need for some type of highly functional dental
replacement system has become increasingly important. Dental implants
are permanent dental replacements that are both natural looking and
very functional. Implants look much better and feel better, and offer
the same force for biting as natural teeth. If you are a non-smoker
with good oral hygiene habits, dental implants should last for a
lifetime.
Dental implants are a major investment and the procedure can be time
consuming. As with any complex surgery, there is always the risk of
complication even after a thorough examination and consultation prior
to care. But dental implants are a dependable and life long solution to
missing teeth. Compared with dentures, which can be loose and unstable,
implants provide a permanent solution that is both functional and
natural in appearance, giving you the confidence to smile and show your
pearly whites.
Summary
Both dentures and dental implants have progressed rapidly over the
years. Many people are finding that dental implants are the most
desirable solution for missing teeth. Implants allow for a new
found confidence while smiling, far exceeding the comfort and
confidence found with dentures. For more information, call us at 765-642-9811 or visit our website at www.ComfortDentalOfAnderson.com.
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