Dental Implants or Dentures
|November 5, 2015
Dental Implants or Dentures. That is certainly the question that people with missing teeth often ask themselves.
Tooth loss and gum disease are more common than most people realize. In 2012, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) estimated one out of two American adults had periodontal disease. Periodontal disease is a chronic inflammatory disease of the gums and jawbone. Left untreated, it can lead to tooth loss.
Additionally, the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research estimates more than 90 percent of American adults have cavities and 26 percent have untreated tooth decay. Tooth decay can lead to the loss of the tooth. After that, your only option is some type of tooth replacement procedure, such as dentures, bridges, or dental implants.
Here’s what your local La Jolla dentist wants you to know about Dental Implants or Dentures.
Dental Implants or Dentures or Bridges
You’ve lost a tooth, maybe two, and are trying to decide if you should get dentures or bridges. Before you make any decisions, take the time to research and educate yourself on each procedure, including talking to your San Diego dentist.
Bridges span an area where there are no teeth. They are permanently bonded to your natural teeth on either side of the gap.
Dentures are either partial or complete. Dentists generally suggest partial dentures when you still have some healthy natural teeth. Just like a bridge, a partial denture fills the gap created by missing teeth. A metal frame holds the partial in your mouth.
Dentists generally use complete dentures when you have few remaining natural teeth. Your dentist will remove any remaining teeth prior to the fitting process. Because your jawbone and gums shrink over time, regular adjustments are necessary.
While bridges are permanent, partial and complete dentures are removable. Many people find dentures uncomfortable and a hassle to clean. Additionally, they can cause difficulties when eating and speaking.
Dental Implants Most Like Real Teeth
If you are facing the prospect of dentures and have concerns about a bad fit, an inability to eat your favorite food, or concerns about denture care, now is the time to speak with your La Jolla dentist about All-on-4® dental implants.
All-on-4® dental implants are a permanent set of fixed teeth that feel and look more like your natural teeth than any other tooth replacement option. Moreover, not only do you clean them as you would your natural teeth, they are more comfortable and offer a stronger bite than dentures.
The All-on-4® process uses four implants per arch. Each implant supports 12 to 14 teeth. With the traditional dental implant process, there are generally six to eight implants per arch. Additionally, the All-on-4® procedure generally doesn’t require bone grafting, something that traditional implants may require.
For anyone who suffers from tooth loss, All-on-4® dental implants offer a fast, cost-effective solution with a high success rate. For more information on whether or not you would be a good candidate for All-on-4® dental implants, or if you would like more information regarding Dental Implants or Dentures, speak with your San Diego dentist today.