Advantages Of Dental Implants Over Traditional Dentures

If you have suffered the loss of multiple teeth, you may be wondering about your restorative options. Dentures and dental implants can be used to restore lost teeth, but which application is right for you?

Here is a bit of information to highlight some of the advantages of choosing dental implants instead of dentures.

The Fit

A comfortable fit is always desirable when it comes to a tooth-replacement device. Still, dentures and dental implants may differ significantly in the way that the appliances fit in the mouth. 

Dentures

Made from an impression of the patient's oral cavity, a traditional denture is designed to fit the dimensions of the mouth. However, some dentures require adhesives to help hold them in place. Additionally, as a patient's mouth changes over time, the denture may no longer fit correctly, causing gum irritation.

Dentures that slip or move as a patient eats or speaks may need to be replaced. The movement of the appliance can make it difficult for the patient to enjoy social interactions and meet nutritional requirements.

Implants

Dental implants rest securely in the mouth in the same manner as a natural tooth root. Installed in the bone of the jaw, a dental implant assimilates with the bone as the implant wound heals. As a result, the implant functions like a natural tooth.

The patient does notice the implant any more than he or she would notice a natural tooth in the mouth. In addition, due to the implant's stability, the patient can enjoy a wide variation of normal foods.

Jawbone Protection

As a person loses teeth, his or her jawbone begins to deteriorate. The bone of the jaw must be stimulated regularly in order to avoid shrinkage or atrophy. This stimulation is provided by the roots of the teeth, which transfer stimulating bite pressure to the jawbone.

Dentures

Dentures rest at the gum line. As a result, they do not interact with the jawbone. Over time, a person with dentures may notice changes in the gum ridge and facial structure as the jawbone shrinks from a lack of stimulation.

Implants

Dental implants are positioned in the bone and transfer bite pressure as a natural dental root does. The stimulating force encourages the jawbone to continue producing additional bone cells to maintain its density.

Dentures and implants also differ in longevity. A denture may have to be replaced every few years. However, an implant should last a lifetime.

For more information about dental implants and their benefits, schedule an appointment with a dentist in your local area, such as at Pittsburgh Dental Spa.