Some of the questions that dentists are often asked by a patient concern dental implants. The patient may wonder if a removable denture would be a better alternative.
The Disadvantage of Removable Dentures
For most people, removable dentures are the only type of denture that they are familiar with. Grandpa might have removed his dentures at night and plopped them into a glass of water. There are a number of problems inherent to removable dentures.
• Bone loss is accelerated and inevitable with removable dentures, causing the other problems familiar to denture wearers. This bone loss is caused by the pressure placed upon the bony ridges that formerly supported the teeth, significantly decreasing bone volume and density. The distance between the denture wearer’s chin and nose decreases, causing the denture wearer to look prematurely aged.
• Dentures fit less well over time, requiring refitting or replacement.
• Chewing harder foods, such as apples or corn on the cob, is impossible for many denture wearers. There is also the risk of breaking the denture – a major embarrassment.
• An ill-fitting denture makes it more difficult to speak clearly.
The Advantages of Dentures Supported by Implants
• Implant-supported dentures are a means to permanently replace the missing teeth while preventing the bone loss problems common with removable dentures. Dental implants are firmly anchored to the living bone tissue, providing the support and stimulation necessary for the prevention of bone loss. Titanium, the metal that the implant posts are made from, has the unique ability to permanently fuse to the bone.
• Dental implants in Long Island
• provide a firm, solid foundation. A complete upper or lower set might require as few as four implants. Since the denture is firmly fixed, eating, chewing and speaking normally are no longer a problem; gooey denture adhesives are unnecessary.
• Dentures supported by implants are particularly valuable for those needing a lower denture. Typically, over half of those with lower dentures are unhappy, finding that lowers are not as stable as upper dentures.
• Fixed dentures feel much more like natural teeth than removable dentures.
• Implant-supported dentures are more expensive initially, but since they will never need to be replaced, are the best long-term investment.
Ultimate Dentistry offers a wide range of dental services, including Dental implants in Long Island. For those who are really uncomfortable with dental procedures, they also offer IV sedation. Schedule an appointment to learn if you are a good candidate for dental implants.
