There are a variety of effective treatments that can replace missing teeth and restore dental function while enhancing smile aesthetics. Our team here at Thompson Center for Dentistry is proud to offer some of the most popular options, including dental implants and traditional dentures. These treatments each have several advantages and distinct benefits, and it is important to understand the basic differences between the two.
Below you will find an overview of the unique aspects of dental implants and dentures. You may find that one of these treatments sounds more beneficial to you than the other based on your needs. Our dentist can meet with you and evaluate your concerns to determine which treatment offers the most ideal solution.
Dental Implants
Dental implants offer a plethora of benefits for patients who need to replace multiple teeth or even just a single tooth. A dental implant is composed of a titanium post and a customized dental crown. These revolutionary missing teeth replacement options are crafted and designed to appear, feel, and function like your natural teeth. Fused to the jawbone where your tooth is missing, a dental implant is secured in a way that is similar to a natural tooth root.
Benefits of dental implants can include:
- Natural-looking replacement teeth that are essentially indistinguishable from original teeth
- Comfort and confidence when speaking and chewing
- Results that can last a lifetime
- Stable teeth that do not move or slip out of place, and do not require adhesives or pastes to remain secure
- Easy dental hygiene maintenance with simple brushing and flossing
It’s important to note that, while many individuals can be successfully treated with dental implants, not all patients are ideal candidates. There must be an adequate amount of jawbone density in the area of the missing tooth for a dental implant to effectively become a part of the mouth like a natural tooth. If dental implants are not the best options for your unique needs and goals, dentures or another type of missing teeth replacement option may provide an alternative solution.
Dentures
Although dental implants represent a major step forward in the field of restorative dentistry, conventional dentures are still a popular treatment for missing teeth replacement and remain an ideal and viable solution for many patients. With upgrades and advances in denture material and techniques over time, dentures can replace multiple teeth or even entire rows of teeth. Consisting of artificial, natural-looking tooth replacements, dentures are customized for your mouth in order to fit comfortably and look indistinguishable from your original teeth. Additionally, while many denture appliances are removable, some patients may benefit from an implant-supported denture, which is essentially a combined version of dental implants and dentures for the best fit and stability possible.
Dentures and partial dentures can provide:
- Natural-looking teeth replacement
- A customized fit
- A fuller facial profile for patients who are missing all of their teeth on the upper and/or lower dental arch
- Improved chewing and speaking
The best way to find out whether dental implants, dentures, or a combined version of the two is to have an oral examination and consultation. We can evaluate your concerns and talk with you about the most effective solution for your needs. Please contact Thompson Center for Dentistry today to find out more about dental implants, dentures, and other restorative dental care options!