Adults need dental implants or dentures for a number of reasons. Poor oral hygiene, untreated gum disease, and heart disease can all lead to tooth loss. Diabetes and COPD are also common culprits.
Surprisingly, about two-thirds of all senior citizens have gum disease. That’s about 36 million people who are at risk of losing teeth. What’s the solution?
Dentists work with patients to prevent tooth loss, but if it occurs they have a few solutions. Dental implants are one treatment option, but how do they stack up against dentures? To find out more about these procedures, keep reading.
DENTAL IMPLANTS: A PERMANENT SOLUTION
Dental implants consist of a post made from titanium, which is implanted in the gums, and a crown made from ceramic or porcelain. There are several steps involved with dental implants. First, the oral surgeon removes the tooth and allows the gums to heal. If necessary, he or she will graft bone into the empty spot in the patient’s gums.
After this heals, the oral surgeon implants the post in the gums. They may top it with a porcelain or ceramic crown, or use it as an anchor for dental bridges or dentures. With proper care, dental implants can last for 30 years or more.
Dental implants strengthen the gums and do require a healthy, robust gumline for optimal insertion. They provide a natural-looking, enduring solution to tooth loss.
The only drawback for some patients is the cost. Dentists may discount multiple implants and they can provide guidance regarding health plans.
DENTURES: AN AFFORDABLE ALTERNATIVE
Dentures are ideal for patients who have lost several teeth in a row or entire arches. They also work well for patients whose gums cannot support dental implants. Dentures are custom-made, typically from acrylic resin.
Patients who have remaining healthy teeth may be good candidates for partial dentures. These dentures may be anchored to implants or the patient’s teeth. Often, they are removable.
Full dentures are another option for patients who have had a full arch removed on the top, bottom, or both. Again, specialists craft natural-looking, custom appliances that help patients talk and chew normally.
The cost of dentures is typically less than that of implants, but dentists can advise as to the final price.
Whether patients choose dental implants or dentures, the goal is always a healthy mouth and a bright smile. Restoring your teeth can make you feel more confident, boosting your ability to get jobs and make friends.
It’s always a good time to address your oral health. Even if you haven’t been to a dentist for years, let us help you by starting with a tooth cleaning. We can discuss your smile goals and see if implants or dentures are a viable option.
RESTORATIVE DENTISTRY IN COFFS HARBOUR
Tooth loss happens, but our friendly team at Magic Smiles offers dentures and dental implants that give you a dazzling, natural-looking smile.
We also offer a wide range of cosmetic procedures including tooth bonding, contouring, and clear Invisalign braces. Adults who wish to improve their smiles are welcome here! We have offices in Woolgoolga and Coffs Harbour.
It’s never too late to invest in a healthy, full smile. Talk to us about your oral health goals. Contact our experienced team today at (02) 6654-0650 to schedule an initial consultation with our dental specialists.
