When you lose a tooth, you should replace it as soon as possible. Problems like tooth drift and jawbone deterioration can develop, without a full set of teeth. You may face a difficult choice when deciding how to replace missing teeth. Dentures can replace multiple teeth, while dental implants restore a natural-feeling, fully functioning tooth. About 70% of patients choose dentures over implants, but you can benefit from both tooth replacement options. In this article, Milford implant dentist Dr. Mitchell Quinter explains differences between dentures and implants, and the hybrid solution, implant-retained dentures.
Removable Dentures
Of all differences between dentures and implants, maintenance sets the two apart most of all. Cleaning dentures prevents mouth tissue from developing fungal infection. However, removing dentures increases their risk of breaking. Fragile materials comprise dentures, and if they should slip from your hands and break, you may have to replace your dentures. Another defining feature of dentures: adhesive. Wearing dentures on your upper jaw may not require you to use denture adhesive, but your lower arch requires adhesive in addition to natural suction to keep dentures in place. Even with adhesive, top dentures can slip and cause sores on gums. Although most people choose dentures to replace their teeth, implants and implant-supported dentures provide a more secure, lower maintenance prosthetic.
Dental Implants
Secured by jawbone, implants can restore a single tooth or anchor implant-supported dentures. For single tooth implants, Dr. Quinter places a small titanium post into an empty tooth socket. In around four months, jawbone bonds directly to the post during a process called osseointegration. A prosthesis that resembles your natural tooth color, and fits your bite caps the post. Partial dentures can attach to implants to securely replace more than one tooth, without requiring uncomfortable adhesive. Implants function and feel like natural teeth. Since implants cannot be removed, you must care for them like you would natural teeth.
Schedule an Appointment with Your Milford Dentist
Which would you choose between implants or dentures? Talk with Dr. Quinter to learn more about how implants can restore missing teeth with little maintenance. Schedule an appointment at our 06460 cosmetic dentistry office by calling (203) 878-6699. We welcome patients from Milford, Orange, Woodmont, West Haven and all neighboring communities.