Despite how far dental technology and knowledge of oral health has come in recent decades, tooth loss is still a common issue. In fact, more than 35 million Americans don’t have any of their natural teeth left! Traditional dentures are one of the most popular and affordable ways to replace missing teeth, but are they the best choice in terms of jawbone preservation in Merrimack? Dental implants can provide this benefit that dentures alone cannot deliver by preventing jawbone loss. Continue reading to learn why dental implants are the best long-term investment you can make in your smile.
Dentures vs. Dental Implants
While the dentures your grandmother wore may have looked and felt artificial, modern dental innovations have made them more lifelike than ever. However, they cannot prevent the jawbone deterioration that naturally occurs after tooth loss. Dentures only replicate the parts of the teeth that are visible above the gums. As a result, your jawbone does not receive the stimulation it needs from your teeth’s roots.
Dental implants differ from other tooth replacements because they recreate the entire structure of the lost tooth, from the root through the crown. Four to ten titanium posts are inserted into the jaw to act as new tooth roots, keeping the bone healthy and strong.
Benefits of Dental Implants
Your dentist can help you decide whether dentures or dental implants are the better choice for you. While every patient’s needs differ, most dentists will recommend an implant-retained denture over a conventional denture due to the many benefits that implants offer, such as:
- A success rate of over 95%
- The ability to last for decades with minimal maintenance
- Renewal of more than 70% of your original biting force, allowing you to chew all of your favorite foods
- Teeth that stay firmly in place (no more slipping, irritation, or messy denture adhesive!)
- Preserves your jawbone and supports your facial muscles, helping you look young and vibrant
- Cost-effective solution in the long term, as it should never have to be replaced (unlike traditional dentures that only last ten years at most)
Are Implant-Retained Dentures Right for Me?
If you have lost all or most of your teeth in one or both arches, then you might be a good candidate for an implant-retained denture. As long as you are in good oral and overall health, you can most likely benefit from this treatment, but you’ll still need a consultation with your dentist to be sure. They’ll have to examine your mouth and take detailed images of your jaw to determine its density. You may need to undergo a bone graft beforehand to increase the chances of long-term implant success.
Are you ready to enjoy the next best thing to your natural teeth? Then ask your dentist if dental implants are right for you!
About the Author
Dr. Charles Braga is the in-house periodontist at Dental Designs of New England in Merrimack, NH. He graduated magna cum laude from the Harvard School of Dental Medicine in 1994 and earned his Certificate in Periodontology from the same school two years later. Since then, he has gained extensive knowledge in treating the gums and jawbone, including dental implant placement. If you would like guidance in choosing between dentures or implants in Merrimack, visit Dr. Braga’s website or give his office a call at 603-429-2199.
