The truth about dentures
If you’re looking for a solution to replace multiple missing teeth, you may be considering dentures. Unlike single tooth replacements such as bridges or crowns, dentures can be made to replace a section of missing teeth, or all the teeth in your mouth. While they are a good option for patients who want to replace the function of several missing teeth and prefer to avoid surgery, they are not considered a permanent or ideal solution to tooth loss.
When teeth go missing, the body no longer needs to maintain the ridge of bone that once contained the tooth sockets and roots of the teeth. Over time, the jawbone will shrink, and your prosthesis will not fit as well.
Traditional dentures float over the gums, held in place by suction. Bone loss, dry mouth, and changes to the function of your jaw joint can all make your prosthesis less functional and more uncomfortable. As they start to shift more often, they may rub and leave you with painful sores or just a less than ideal fit.
They also can’t withstand heavy pressure and significantly limit your food options. In fact, many denture wearers suffer with nutritional deficiencies for that reason.
What are the alternatives?
In general, we recommend dental implants over dentures.
Implants are a replacement option for missing teeth which are permanently and securely placed into the jaw. Because of this, they look, feel and function just like your original natural teeth.
The main advantage of traditional dentures is that their initial cost is significantly lower than the cost of full mouth dental implants. However, it’s important to understand the long-term expenses involved in maintaining them.
As the shape of your jawbone changes and your dentures don’t fit as well, you’ll need frequent maintenance appointments to have your dentures relined or adjusted, and most dentures need complete replacement every 7 years or so.
Dental implants, on the other hand, need little to no special maintenance other than routine cleanings and good home care. With adequate care, dental implants can last indefinitely.
Traditional dentures are fabricated from lightweight acrylic resins that are less durable and more porous than permanent tooth replacements. For this reason, they tend to lose their shine and become chipped and stained, and break easily if they are dropped. All problems you can avoid with the heavier, more durable ceramics used in dental implants.
There are rare cases when dental implants are not an appropriate choice, such as if a patient does not have enough healthy bone structure to support the posts, or if they have medical issues that make surgery impossible.
But in general, dental implants are far superior in terms of appearance, function, comfort, and longevity.
Is there a happy medium between dentures and fixed dental implants?
Yes! Implant-supported dentures are a removable option that snap securely into place on specialized implant abutments.
This approach is more affordable than fixed full mouth dental implants, and more functional than traditional dentures. Many people also prefer the versatility of removing their prosthesis so they can clean it thoroughly every day.
Although they don’t have the same strength as permanent dental implants, implant-supported dentures dramatically improve your ability to eat and chew comfortably. Plus, you’ll never have to worry about your teeth clicking when you talk or interfering with the sound of your voice.
Implant-supported dentures have an excellent lifespan and most patients strongly prefer them to the traditional approach.
Wondering if dentures are right for you?
At Moore, Pascarella & Heinzen, your wellbeing is always our top priority, and we’ll do what it takes to ensure you get the care you need. While we strongly recommend dental implants in most cases, we have the expertise and capability to create comfortable, attractive traditional dentures when needed. We also partner with several expert prosthodontists who can provide exceptional dentures at an affordable price.
If you’re unsure about the future of your smile, talk to us! We’re happy to schedule a consultation for dentures or dental implants in our Red Bluff and Redding offices.
