Traditional vs. Implant-supported Dentures
Adult tooth loss can significantly impact the health and structure of the smile, as well as the strength of oral functions. Many people who have suffered the loss of multiple adult teeth are ideal candidates for dentures. Dentures can replace a large set of teeth, or up to an entire arch of teeth.
When undergoing dentures treatment, patients have the option to choose traditional dentures or implant-supported dentures. Here, dentists from Gooch Family Dental, which serves the Birmingham, AL, area, explain the differences regarding traditional vs. implant-supported dentures, so that individuals have an idea of which may be better suited to their unique needs and desires.
What Are Traditional Dentures?
Traditional dentures are a set of removable artificial teeth. They are made up of a plastic base that resembles the gum line, and a set of dental restorations to replace missing teeth. Partial dentures have a metal framework that allows them to hook around any remaining natural teeth, to help them stay in place. Complete dentures rest over the gum line and can be held in place by suction or dentures adhesive. Traditional dentures are generally worn during the day, and then removed at night while a person sleeps.
Pros and Cons of Traditional Dentures
A set of complete dentures can replace an entire arch of teeth, so traditional dentures offer one of the fastest and most affordable solutions for the loss of multiple teeth. Traditional dentures treatment is non-invasive. Molds are taken of the mouth to ensure the dentures fit properly. Design specifications are sent to a dental laboratory and completed dentures are returned in a matter of weeks. Once dentures arrive, they are ready to be worn immediately.
While traditional dentures are an affordable way to rebuild the smile after substantial tooth loss, there are some downsides to consider. Since dentures do not have a strong support system, they may slip or fall out of place. Dentures could also rub against the gums and cause discomfort. Finally, dentures must be removed and cleaned each night, which some of our Birmingham patients consider to be an inconvenience.
What Are Implant-supported Dentures?
As with traditional dentures, implant-supported dentures are artificial teeth that can replace a large set of teeth or up to an entire arch of missing teeth. However, implant-supported dentures are held in place by a series of dental implants. Dental implants are small titanium screws that are surgically placed in the jaw. Implants attach to small metal posts, or abutments, which are used to support the dentures. Implant-supported dentures are bonded in place so that they are permanent and not removable.
Pros and Cons of Implant-supported Dentures
Implant-supported dentures require oral surgery, which means that treatment is more costly and lengthy than it is for traditional dentures. Dental implants also require substantial bone density, so not all of our Birmingham patients are ideal candidates for this procedure, which is why some prefer traditional dentures.
For those who are candidates for implant-supported dentures, these restorations offer many benefits. Implant-supported dentures are the closest replica to the natural teeth. They never slip out of place and are strong enough to perform a full range of oral functions. Dental implants can be brushed and flossed just like the natural teeth, so they do not require any special care. Finally, dental implants are the only missing teeth treatment that replace not only the crown of a missing tooth, but also the roots, which means they stimulate the jaw bone and prevent bone loss.
Contact Gooch Family Dental
If you have lost a large set of teeth or a full arch of teeth, dentures can rebuild the smile and restore oral functions. To find out if you are an ideal candidate for traditional or implant-supported dentures, we invite you to schedule an appointment with Gooch Family Dental, or call us at (205) 991-9892.
