Traditional vs Implant-Supported Dentures
When you hear the word “dentures,” you automatically think of old people, right? Visions of the horror you felt the first time you saw Grandma’s teeth in a glass run through your brain giving you chills. The truth is that there are many reasons that people of all ages need dentures. Drs. Chad and Alexandra Schnabel at Savannah Dental solutions are proficient in all of the newest dental technology and able to help you if you decide it is time for this process.
Reasons One Might Need Dentures
Although we all associate dentures with the elderly, plenty of other situations may put you in need of the procedure such as:
- injury
- gum disease
- rotting teeth
- abrasion of the enamel
- and of course, age
Anything that would cause you to lose 4 or more teeth, can be a reason to talk to your dentist about the possibility of dentures.
Types of Dentures
There are two most common types of dentures (also known as “false teeth,) both with their own positive and negative aspects. It is important that you know the differences so that you make the best decision. A brief and informative consultation with your dentist will help you to decide which one is the proper choice for your mouth.
Traditional Dentures
These are the more conventional approach (like the type in the glass next to grandma’s bed.) They are formed to the shape of your mouth and rest on top of the gums and bone relying on them for structure and support. Some of the aspects of traditional dentures include:
- Removable
This will allow them to be clean outside of the mouth. They will then be placed back in and held down with denture adhesive.
- Affordable
Conventional method dentures are often much less expensive than other denture options.
- Uncomfortable
They are known to rub against gums, creating sore spots. They also make it often difficult to chew making eating a lot of food (such as popcorn or apples) is no longer an option.
- Jaw can shrink
With no teeth or implants to stimulate the jaw bone, the shape of the mouth tends to adjust. This will affect the shape of your mouth, causing you to have to have the dentures replaced.
Implant-Supported Dentures
This is a dental prosthesis which is supported by four or more
dental implants that are embedded in the bone. Since they do not rest on your gums but are instead adhered to actual bone and/or teeth, there is no need for glue. A few elements to consider include:
- Long-lasting
This type of denture draws strength for the bone, which prevents slipping and allows for the preservation of the existing bone.
- Less maintenance
Because they are not removable, only the dentist can take them out for occasional cleaning and upkeep. Otherwise, they are there for life.
- Long Term Investment
Although implant-supported dentures can be more expensive than the traditional counterpart, they tend to last longer requiring fewer adjustments or replacements.
(or styles of implant-supported dentures) have become commonly used in modern dentistry as a solution to the problems found with a traditional denture. Most can be done in just a few visits, if not a single day.
(also known as “Teeth In a Day”) can replace the upper or lower quadrants of your teeth by using 4 specifically placed implants.
- Immediate Load Implants
are also popular to replace smaller amounts of teeth than the entire upper or lower half by only needing as little as two teeth for placement.
The benefits over traditional dentures make both options popular due to the fact that these styles of dentures are realistic looking, comfortable and allow you to eat difficult foods such as corn on the cob, apples , and steak.
If you think that dentures may be right for you, contact Savannah Dental Solutions today at 912-354-1366 for a consultation. Dedicated to helping people in Savannah and the surrounding areas, this team of skilled professionals is ready to get you the smile you’ve always wanted.
