IMPLANT SUPPORTED DENTURES VS CONVENTIONAL DENTURES
The dentist told you it is time to get dentures, so that means you are getting false teeth, what else is there to know? Just like most other dental procedures, there are more advances and choices to treat tooth loss and dental health. When discussing your denture options, the dentist will talk to you about traditional dentures and implant supported dentures in mobile alabama. Not everyone is healthy enough for both options, but you and the dentist can go through the requirements for each option.
The Differences
Conventional dentures are larger acrylic prosthetics that are crafted to fit your mouth and create suction with the gums. The jawbones below your gums help keep the dentures in place, but if the suction is not strong, then the dentures can rub against your tender gums creating sores. These dentures are removed every day and cleaned outside of your mouth with special denture cleaning products.
Implant supported dentures use the same acrylic prosthetics, but the actual denture is much smaller as it does not rely on larger surface area for a stronger bond. Depending on your mouth and the placement of the dentures, the dentist may place anywhere from two to eight posts surgically into your gums. The dentures attach to the implants, locking the dentures into place. The dental implants are usually made of titanium and the posts fuse to your jaw bone offering strength and stability nearly matching natural teeth. These dentures do not rest on your gums and can be locked into your mouth only to be removed at the dentist’s office for professional cleaning.
Comparing Conventional Dentures vs. Implant Supported Dentures
Conventional dentures and implant supported dentures affect your jaw bone differently. Regular dentures rest on your gums and do not typically offer strength when it comes to chewing your food. The jaw bone deteriorates over time and the gums receded creating the need for new dentures to fit the change. The bone is not as healthy when there is nothing stimulating it to maintain strength.
Implant supported dentures embed titanium posts into the jaw bone. Not only does the titanium lend strength to the bone, but it stimulates the bone to maintain its strength. The jaw bone and gums are less likely to deteriorate and recede with this consistent stimulation. The dentures are locked into place above the gums preventing sores on the gums. The dentures stay in place while you talk and eat.
What Is Your Long-Term Choice?
Traditional dentures do not usually require surgery like implant supported dentures do and the upfront cost of traditional dentures will be immediately less than the implant supported dentures. Over time, your conventional dentures will need to be adjusted or even replaced every 5 to 10 years due to your mouth changing shape. Your implant supported dentures are likely to last 20 years with proper care.
There is not one right answer for everyone; take the time to review your lifestyle and your needs. The confidence you will gain after you replace your missing teeth with a full smile will change your life from day to day.
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