Facing the challenge of missing teeth is incredibly common and becomes more likely with age. Nearly 40 million Americans are missing all of their teeth.[1] Missing teeth can affect your health and ability to eat and speak naturally. Implant-supported dentures in Rochester, NY, are one solution.
What are Implant-Supported Dentures?
Implant-supported dentures, also called fixed dentures, are similar to traditional dentures. They’re made of similar materials and provide a natural smile’s appearance and function. However, implant-supported dentures differ from conventional dentures in a few key ways.
Instead of resting on the gums like traditional dentures, implant-supported dentures are attached to dental implants and are not removable except for by your periodontist or dentist. Several titanium implants are embedded in the upper and lower jawbone, and your dentist attaches the implant-supported dentures to those implant posts.
The foundation provided by dental implants makes implant-supported dentures in Rochester, NY, a superior option to traditional dentures in many cases. However, whether these dentures are appropriate for you depends on certain factors. It can be helpful to consider the pros and cons of implant-supported dentures as follows.
Pros of Implant-Supported Dentures
One of the most significant advantages of implant-supported dentures is allowing you to eat more naturally. Traditional dentures sit on the gums, which limits bite force. They’re also liable to slip and move during chewing. On the other hand, implant-supported dentures have a solid foundation and increase bite force so that you can enjoy a diet with fewer restraints.
Many patients also find that implant-supported dentures improve their natural speaking ability. Traditional dentures significantly improve over having no teeth, but it can be challenging to adapt to speaking with dentures. Implant-supported dentures help make speaking easier.
Implant-supported dentures support your long-term oral health. When you live with missing teeth for an extended period of time, you can experience jawbone deterioration. Without natural tooth roots present, the jawbone weakens and begins to degenerate. Unlike traditional dentures, dental implants provide similar stimulation to tooth roots, stopping this issue.
You’ll also find that implant-supported dentures are a more permanent solution. Traditional dentures can start to bend and warp after just a few years, creating an uncomfortable fit. Implant-supported dentures last much longer. Dental implants are meant to last a lifetime, and you get a longer lifespan from the dentures themselves.
All of these benefits come together to improve your quality of life significantly. With implant-supported dentures, you’ll also be more confident in the appearance of your smile and that your dentures won’t slip or move unexpectedly.
Cons of Implant-Supported Dentures
Implant-supported dentures aren’t necessarily the right choice in every situation. The cost is one of the most significant hurdles, as the treatment requires dental implant surgery. However, the benefits make it well worth considering various financing options if cost is an issue.
Dental implants require a strong, healthy jawbone. If you’ve already experienced jawbone deterioration after living with missing teeth, your jawbone may not be able to support the dental implants. Procedures such as bone grafting can augment the jawbone to allow for dental implants but will also extend your treatment time frame.
Like other surgical procedures, dental implant placement carries a risk of infection. Peri-implantitis is the infection of the implant site. If you have any signs of gum disease, you must treat that condition before receiving the dental implants, as gum disease can increase your risk of infection.
Implant-Supported Dentures in Rochester, NY
The improved function and appearance of implant-supported dentures make them an effective, long-lasting solution for many missing teeth. The skilled team at Dental Implants & Periodontal Health of Rochester provides this procedure and a range of other treatments, using only the best technology and techniques to ensure an exceptional treatment outcome.
Schedule a consultation to find out more about your options today. Or give us a call at 585-685-2005.
Sources:
[1] https://www.prosthodontics.org/assets/1/7/ACP_Talking_points_for_Missing_Teeth_1-12-15.pdf
