Denture implants are the only missing teeth replacement option the restores teeth above and below the gum line. If you are missing all of your teeth or a whole arch of teeth, implant supported dentures are the best option. Sterling, VA dental implant dentist Dr. Zahra Kavianpour feels it is important for her patients to learn about both traditional dentures and dentures that are held in place with teeth implants. This way, patients can make better decisions about their dental health.
Dental Implants vs Dentures
A denture is a set a false teeth that is fused to an acrylic base that is typically pink in color to match gum tissue. Traditional dentures are held in place with suction or adhesive and sometimes both. This retention method is not very stable. The patient will not be able to chew certain types of food and will have to adhere to a limited diet. Also, the denture may come loose or shift inside the mouth. This can lead to slurring while trying to talk and awkward smiles.
Dentures held in place with dental implants are very stable. They allow the patient to chew many types of food with ease. There is no need to worry about them coming loose or shifting around in the mouth. In fact, they are the next best thing to natural teeth. Since the implants are secured in the jaw bone, they will actually prevent bone loss and premature aging in the face. This is something traditional dentures cannot accomplish.
Types of Denture Implants
There are two basic types of dentures implants. A fixed denture implant is permanently attached to the dental implants and snap in denture implants will snap onto the implants.
Only a dentist can remove a fixed dental implant supported denture. Once the implants and abutments are in place, your dentist will use small screws to secure the denture. Most patients prefer this option because they never have to worry about taking their false teeth out. Caring for them is very simple as you simply brush them like you do natural teeth. However, you must carefully floss the space between the restoration and the gums to avoid an infection.
Snap on denture implants are not as secure as fixed dentures. They are also bulkier and tougher to get used to. However, they are more affordable. Instead of using screws to secure the denture to the implants, the denture will have locators that will snap on to the top of the abutments. You will have to remove this type of denture implant every day to properly clean it and take care of it. However, they easily snap in and out of your mouth.
Both types of implant secured dentures require surgical placement of the implant fixtures. However, the abutments will be different. During a consultation with Sterling, VA dental implant dentist Dr. Zahra Kavianpour, she can help you determine which type of denture will work best for you. Book your consultation today by calling 703.444.3412 or request an appointment online.