Dentures are usually associated with old people, gummy smiles and false teeth in glasses on a bedside table, but more adults are losing teeth as a result of tooth decay and gum disease. And it’s not just people in their 30s, 40s, and 50s: Young adults also lose teeth because of dental trauma. Thankfully technology has come a long way, though, and you don’t need to worry about your teeth falling out during a board meeting presentation or while you’re blowing out your birthday candles. Especially now that we have implant-supported dentures.
What are dentures?
In case you were wondering, dentures are used to replace missing teeth. Traditional dentures need to be removed at bedtime, and when you brush them. But how did dentures come about?
The earliest dentures were made using animal teeth, carved stones and pieces of bone, as well as seashells.
Wooden dentures were also once a thing. Stories about our very own George Washington tell of his wooden teeth, but this is incorrect. The USA’s first president’s teeth were made from ivory: hippopotamus tusks, to be exact.
Implant-supported dentures vs traditional dentures
Do you need dentures? Or maybe you are thinking about replacing your old ones with implant-supported dentures. Both of these offer form and function, filling gaps and improving your smile, while also allowing you to speak and chew food comfortably.
There are also several noticeable differences, though, with the most obvious being that traditional dentures have to be removed when you brush them and while you sleep. Implant-supported dentures, on the other hand, are secured in place with titanium posts that are implanted into your jaw bone. They then fuse with the underlying bone tissue, replacing the roots.
In a relatively short space of time, implant-supported dentures have become one of the best solutions for people with missing teeth, and are extremely popular with patients. And it’s easy to see why.
Advantages of implant-supported dentures
Implant-supported dentures come with many benefits, including the following:
Improved appearance
The advancement in technology and equipment available allows dentists to measure and fit your implants perfectly, and the color can be adjusted to suit your own teeth, which results in a more natural look.
Better speech
Traditional dentures, which don’t always fit well, can slip in your mouth, causing you to slur your words or mumble. You don’t need to worry about this with implant-supported dentures.
Comfort and convenience
Because dental implants are almost as good as your own teeth, they feel more comfortable in your mouth. Also, from a convenience point of view, you don’t need to take your implant dentures out when you sleep, and you don’t have to avoid certain foods.
Durability
Implant-supported dentures are more durable than traditional dentures, and with the right care and maintenance will last a very long time.
Frequently Asked Questions about implant-supported dentures
Are dental implants suitable for everyone?
Generally, dental implants are suitable for everyone, as long as they are in good health and have healthy gums and sufficient bone to hold the implants. Heavy smokers and people who have uncontrolled chronic health issues such as heart disease or diabetes will need to be evaluated. If you are considering the procedure, we recommend you speak to your dentist.
Are dental implants painful?
According to our patients, the procedure isn’t painful at all. Some people prefer having local anesthesia, but most have said that it is less painful than having a tooth pulled.
How do I care for my implant-supported dentures?
You look after your implant dentures like you would your own teeth. You should brush and floss daily, and have dental checkups on a regular basis. Remember, even though your implants can’t rot or get cavities, the gum tissue around them can get infected without the proper care and maintenance.
How much do implant-supported dentures cost?
The cost of implants varies depending on the number you need, the condition of your teeth and jawbone, and the type of replacement teeth your dentist builds. We accept a number of payment methods for your convenience, including financing options available through CareCredit®.
Why not pop into Grand Miami Dental in Middletown, Ohio for a consultation? Rated as one of the area’s best dentists by Cincinnati magazine for the past 10 years, Dr. Lang will be able to advise on whether implant-supported dentures are the right fit for you.
