A Comparison of Dentures and Dental Implants in Northwest Dallas

You’ve had some hiccups in your oral health that have resulted in the loss of your teeth, but should that hinder you from leading a normal life? With the replacement options offered by modern dentistry, you can regain the functionality and aesthetics of a full set of teeth. There are two primary means of replacement: dentures and dental implants in Northwest Dallas. Read on for a comparison of the procedures.

What to Expect from Dentures

A full set of dentures consists of prosthetic teeth made from porcelain that are affixed to a resin base. The appliance rests atop the gums and relies on dental adhesive and the natural suction created within the mouth to hold it in place.

This procedure may be the option of choice for patients who have suffered substantial bone loss due to being without their teeth for a prolonged period of time.

What are Dental Implants?

An alternative to traditional dentures is the dental implant procedure. The process consists of titanium posts being surgically inserted into your jawbone, which act as replacements for your missing roots.

Because titanium is a biocompatible material, the implants will fuse with the existing bone over time to create a firm base, which will help to recreate the natural environment of your mouth.

The Addition of Implant-Supported Dentures

Once your jaw and gums heal properly from the initial insertion, abutments are later added, which act as anchors that allow implant-supported dentures to later be securely attached. This is made possible by small snaps that are added to the underside of the dentures.

Thus, your implant-supported prosthetics will fasten into place and leave you without any fears of them falling out your mouth.

Traditional and Implant-Supported Dentures Compared

The following shows how traditional and implant-supported dentures differ:

• Cost – For more cost-sensitive patients, traditional dentures may be the better option. However, the long-term benefits of implant-supported dentures make them a worthwhile investment.
• Treatment Time – Because the dental implant route is a more involved process, you can expect the treatment time to be longer than with traditional dentures. Whereas the latter can take up to 10 weeks to complete, the implant-supported denture procedure can take as long as six months to finalize.
• Support – When it comes to jaw support, the dental implant procedure is in a class of its own. By the post being inserted into the jawbone, a signal is sent to continue the production of new bone cells, which translates into better overall support and the prevention of facial wear and premature wrinkling.

The Final Decision

The only way to make an educated decision about whether dental implants or dentures in Northwest Dallas are better for you is to visit your local dentist for a full examination and consultation. Such details as the cost, treatment time and the determination of which procedure is best-suited to meet your needs will be discussed at your appointment.

The ultimate goal is to take action so that you can eventually regain the functionality and happiness that come along with having your teeth replaced.

About the Author

Whether you decide to have traditional or implant-supported dentures placed, you’ll benefit from the vast experience and knowledge of a Bear Creek Family Dentistry specialist. To schedule a consultation and get on the road to being fully restored, contact the professionals through their website.