Tooth loss is not something any of us really expect to encounter beyond our childhood years. During that early part of life, losing a tooth meant we were growing up. In adulthood, tooth loss used to be a sign of old age. According to statistics, however, this may not be the case any longer. More than 30% of adults lose a tooth well before their “senior years.” This is not great news. What is great news is that modern dentistry has solutions that go beyond conventional tooth replacement methods. Here, we will discuss the differences between dentures and dental implants.
The Conventional Method
Historically, patients who needed total tooth replacement were fitted with a full denture. This full arch of teeth is still widely used today. It is designed based on the structure of the jaw and, when possible, the structure of remaining teeth before they are extracted. The intent behind dentures is to restore the structures that are visible in the smile. With a whole new set of teeth, patients should be able to get back to their normal dietary habits, and their usual confidence when they speak, smile, and laugh. If you know anyone with full dentures, you may be well aware that this ideal is rarely achieved.
The major disadvantage of full dentures is that the fixtures, although custom made to fit the gums, only fit the gums. In theory, when the denture is seated over gum tissue, natural suction occurs. This natural suction should stabilize the row of teeth. Not so.
The New Method
Dental implants may be the “new kid on the block,” but this method of tooth replacement has actually been in use for some time. Dr. Garcia is a Glendale dentist who proudly performs implant treatment for patients who want to go beyond the basics.
Implants are replacement roots, not replacement teeth. For patients who need to replace all of their natural teeth, implants make a perfect complement to the full denture method. These small structures are situated in the jaw in a precise manner. After they are encased in bone, which may take a few months, implants provide a lifetime of support to the full denture.
You deserve to eat a wide variety of foods, to speak, smile and laugh without fear that your denture may slip or fall out. You deserve the full restoration of your smile. To learn more about dental implant treatment, call our dentist in Glendale (818) 290-8788 .
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