Advances in restorative dentistry have given patients more options for missing teeth replacement than ever before. While traditional dentures were the standard method many years ago for dental restoration of entire rows of missing teeth, state-of-the-art dental implants and hybrid versions of implants and custom dentures now offer effective alternatives for many individuals. With that in mind, it is important to understand the distinctions between dental implants and conventional dentures and why one may be of more benefit than the other in certain cases. Let’s explore the differences:
Dental Implants
Dental implants are titanium posts that are surgically inserted into the jawbone in the area of missing teeth. The titanium post that forms the dental implant is designed to integrate with the jawbone and serve as a kind of artificial tooth root, ultimately providing a sturdy foundation for a custom dental crown. This innovative solution can basically imitate both the function and appearance of natural teeth, providing patients with results that look and feel virtually indistinguishable from natural teeth and potentially last a lifetime. Dental implants do not require any kind of dental paste or adhesive to remain stable and secure, and they are cleaned and maintained the same way you would take care of your original teeth.
Eligible candidates for dental implants must have sufficient jawbone density in the area of missing teeth and oral health must be in overall good shape. That said, treatments to restore oral health and enhance bone density (such as bone grafting) have made it possible for more patients than ever to qualify for this treatment.
Dentures
Conventional dentures are removable oral appliances composed of artificial teeth designed to look like natural teeth. For decades, dentures were the standard option for patients missing all of their teeth on the upper and/or lower dental arches. Although advances such as dental implants made conventional dentures a less desirable treatment for many patients, dentures still have a place in restorative dentistry and may be the most viable option for some individuals, particularly those who are not ideal candidates for dental implants or other restorative treatments. While dentures may require adhesives to reduce movement along the gums, today’s dentures can often be produced with a more customized and comfortable fit than dentures of the past. However, it is important to note that many patients are good candidates for a combined version of dentures and dental implants, such as All-on-4® fixed hybrid dentures (sometimes referred to as implant dentures). This option can be an alternative solution for patients who may not have adequate jawbone density for a full set of dental implants but have enough in certain areas to accommodate a select number of implants. Those implants can be utilized to securely attach to a custom denture, ultimately providing a strong support system for denture stability without solely relying on denture adhesives.
Choosing the Best Option
Ultimately, the decision between dental implants and dentures depends on your individual needs and preferences. During an initial consultation, one of our experienced oral surgeons here at Oral & Facial Surgeons of Arizona can assess your oral health and discuss your treatment goals to help you determine the best teeth replacement option for your needs.
If you have any questions or concerns about replacing missing teeth, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We’re here to help you achieve a healthy and confident smile!
