If you’re missing any number of teeth, one thing is for certain; it’s important that you take action to replace them. This is not only for aesthetic purposes, but also because it will help to vastly improve your functionality. With the advancements in dentistry, you’re not relegated to only one option. As you continue reading, two forms of replacement, dentures in Greensboro and dental implants, will be explored so you can be better educated before making a decision.
What to Expect from a Set of Dentures
The foundation of a set of dentures is a pink resin base that looks like your natural gums. Resting atop are a set of porcelain prosthetic teeth. Porcelain is the material of choice because of its similarity to your original teeth in color, translucency and texture.
The removable appliance is secured by dental adhesive and the natural suction created inside your mouth. Each night it’s important that you remove the dentures to clean and soak them to keep your gums healthy and to prevent the acute growth of oral bacteria.
The Difference a Dental Implant Makes
A dental implant is a cylinder-shaped titanium post that is surgically inserted into the underlying jawbone to mimic the natural function of the missing tooth root. After its initial placement, it fuses with the existing bone through a process called osseointegration, which solidifies the implant’s position and allows for an abutment and final restoration to be added.
The Pros and Cons of Dentures and Dental Implants
While both dentures and dental implants are viable ways of replacing missing teeth, there are certain situations that make one procedure a better choice than the other. Let’s look at a few scenarios:
Bone Loss
If you suffered bone loss because your teeth have been missing for too long, then a set of dentures may be the better route to take. Otherwise, you may require a bone grafting procedure to qualify for dental implant placement. For patients who choose to take the latter route, the entire treatment time can sometimes span more than a year.
Full Chewing Capacity
If performance is one of your main concerns, then dental implant insertion is the route to take. With the stability and durability that it provides, once a final restoration is added, you can possibly regain up to 95% of your original chewing capacity, whereas a set of dentures will typically only restore around 25%.
Hesitance About Undergoing Surgery
If you’re not a big fan of undergoing a surgical procedure, then a set of dentures provides a less invasive way to replace your teeth.
A Natural Appearance
Because of dental implants being inserted at the jawbone level, they are able to create a natural appearance. By resting atop the gum line, a set of dentures can’t duplicate the same realistic look.
Making the Final Decision
A key step in making a final decision about how to replace your missing teeth in Greensboro is to visit your dentist for a careful examination and consultation. This will provide you with a better understanding of the current state of your oral health and the amount of jawbone you have remaining. With your dentist’s help, you can make the right choice about how to replace your missing teeth and move forward with getting your life back on track!
About the Author
A graduate of the University of North Carolina, Dr. David Fisher has been practicing dentistry for over 20 years. Because he understands that all situations aren’t the same, he provides patients with the options of receiving dental implants or dentures to replace their missing teeth. Dr. Fisher can be reached for more information through his website.