Permanent Dentures vs. Dental Implants in Indianapolis
Permanent Dentures vs. Dental Implants in Indianapolis
According to the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons, 69 percent of adults between the ages of 35 and 44 have lost at least one tooth, and by age 74, 26 percent of adults have lost them all. If you are one of the people represented by those figures, you’ve probably noticed that there are a lot more options in tooth replacement today than there were a generation ago.
Dr. Falender has seen many trends come and go. While more choices is definitely better, it can make the process a bit more confusing. In the interests of helping to clear that confusion, we’re going to discuss two of today’s most popular and beneficial tooth replacement methods, permanent dentures vs dental implants.
Dental Implants in Indianapolis
Dental implants revolutionized tooth replacement, offering a healthier and more functional alternative to removable dentures. While removable dentures have served many people well over the years, they have always been a less than ideal solution for tooth loss, with issues like slippage, mouth sores, increased salivation and chewing difficulties common on a day-to-day basis. Over the long-term, deterioration of the jaw bone becomes an issue, since no teeth are present to stimulate bone growth and repair.
A dental implant is done by inserting a titanium implant into the jawbone where the root of the original tooth once was. Once the implant is inserted, the jawbone will incorporate it much like it would a natural tooth root. Once the implant has bonded with the jaw, an abutment is attached, which will hold the crown, the part that looks like a tooth.
The use of dental implants offers a solution to tooth replacement that is more similar to the structure of natural teeth. They look and feel natural and function in the same manner as original teeth, and, perhaps most importantly, they stimulate the jaw bone like natural teeth, preventing bone deterioration.
Permanent Dentures vs Dental Implants
Dental implants have become very popular for the replacement of a single missing tooth or a few, but many Indianapolis patients with extensive tooth loss are still opting for removable dentures, despite the disadvantages. Often, it is a financial decision, since replacing a mouthful of teeth with implants can get expensive.
Convenience is another issue. The process from implant to permanent replacement can take months, depending upon the circumstances, and many people are, understandably, not pleased with the prospect of doing without so many teeth for so long.
Permanent dentures are an option that can address these issues, offering many of the same benefits as individual implants in terms comfort, functionality and oral health without the extensive waiting time for that new smile. Permanent dentures are also an implant based solution, using implants in the jawbone as anchors to secure a permanent dental bridge.
ALL-ON-4, INDIANAPOLIS
Among the popular options available for Indianapolis patients who would like a quick resolution to their tooth loss problem is the all-on-four system. With this method, four titanium implants can be placed in the jaw and the bridge is then secured to the implants- most often on the same day. This offers the speed and convenience that patients desire, preventing any need to settle for removable dentures, while providing the support for good bone health, comfort and functionality of implants. For the Indianapolis patient that is embarrassed over a toothless smile, the all-on-four method of tooth replacement offers a fast, attractive and healthy solution.
So there is the difference between standard dental implants and permanent dentures. Which is the best for your will depend on the number of teeth to be replaced, your oral health and, of course, the professional opinion of your dental health team. Either is sure to improve your quality-of-life, allowing a bright, beautiful and uninhibited smile.
To discuss dental implants vs permanent dentures with Dr. Falender, a board certified oral and maxillofacial surgeon practicing in Indianapolis since 1987, Request An Appointment.
For more on dental implants in Indianapolis please download our free eBook, A Truly Life Changing Smile.