If you’ve lost all your natural teeth, dentures are the most convenient and popular option to rebuild your smile. Although they are effective, you might notice they don’t fit snuggly as time passes. Your dentures can slip and cause irritation because your jawbone is slowly shrinking since it isn’t being stimulated by tooth roots. While dentures are beneficial, they don’t do anything for jawbone preservation. You don’t need to live with the deterioration. Here’s how implant dentures can replace your missing teeth and keep your jaw strong.
Bone Loss from Missing Teeth
Every tooth is crucial for a healthy smile. Even one missing tooth will cause you to lose density in your jaw. Research shows you can lose as much as 25% of your jawbone’s density within the first year of losing a tooth. With each tooth you lose, your jaw will continue to shrink, which can make your dentures fit poorly and cause you to look years older than your age.
Dentures VS Dental Implants
Dentures have been used for decades to treat complete tooth loss. An acrylic base is made to fit your mouth, which is held in place using suction or an adhesive. While it allows you to regain a beautiful, functional smile, a denture only lasts for about 7 years before needing to be replaced. Not to mention, it won’t stop bone loss because it only replicates the portions of your teeth visible above the gum line.
A dental implant goes a step further by mimicking the entire tooth, including the root. A titanium implant post is surgically inserted into the jaw to act like a root. It will stimulate new bone growth to keep your jaw strong. Your bone will fuse to the implant through a process called osseointegration, allowing it to potentially stay in place forever with the right aftercare, like maintaining your oral hygiene.
Benefits of Implant Dentures
If you’ve lost all your teeth, you won’t need to replace them individually to advantage from dental implants. Instead, 4 to 10 posts can anchor your denture to your jawbone. As a result, you’ll enjoy unmatched benefits that aren’t possible using a traditional denture, such as:
- Over a 95% success rate to last for decades.
- Looks and feels natural.
- Regain as much as 70% of your natural biting force.
- Preserves your jawbone.
- Supports your facial tissues for a youthful appearance.
- Long-term, cost-effective treatment.
Keep Your Jawbone Healthy
If you’re tired of replacing your dentures every few years or you’re ready to restore a youthful appearance, you might be a candidate for dental implants. Not sure if dentures or implants are the right solution? Your dentist will create the customized plan you need for an amazing smile.
About Dr. Vince Fava
Dr. Fava earned his dental degree from the University of Toronto. He has completed advanced training in periodontology, oral surgery, and anesthesia. He can treat complex oral health issues, like tooth loss. If you’re interested in implant dentures, contact our office today to schedule your consultation.