Nobody wants to go through life without a complete set of working teeth. Fortunately, there are multiple solutions available for addressing tooth loss with dental implants and dentures being two of the most common. At Chattanooga Periodontics & Dental Implants, our periodontist provides recommendations that best suit your individual needs as a patient.
Regular Denture
Implant Denture
Why You May Be Considering Dentures
- You have lost one or more teeth. Missing teeth can compromise the look and functionality of your smile.
- You have avoided the dentist. Dental neglect can lead to unchecked bacterial buildup on the teeth potentially causing tooth and gum decay and even tooth loss.
- You have gaps between your teeth or your teeth are loose or moving. These issues might be signs of underlying factors that may cause tooth loss.
- You get frequent toothaches. Chronic dental pain might lead you to considering teeth extraction, replacing your smile with dentures.
- Chewing food is difficult. For patients who have difficulty eating and chewing like normal, dentures may provide a more comfortable experience.
- Your gums are bleeding, swollen, or tender. These are all common symptoms of gum disease, which is a common cause of tooth loss in turn.
Are There Other Alternatives to Dentures Out There?
While dentures have been around for generations and continue to be a viable option for many patients experiencing tooth loss, there are alternative treatments that may offer more support and stability.
For many patients, dental implants work even better than dentures. Dental implants are small titanium screws placed into the jawbone to provide a solid foundation. Once they heal and anchor in place, they offer a sturdy support structure for replacement teeth. Compared with dentures, dental implants often provide greater comfort, security, and longevity. They are also much more effective at preserving surrounding bone and tissue.
The Advantages of Dental Implants
- More strength and stability. Implants anchor to the jawbone and provide a much more incredible feeling of security than dentures do. There is no risk of “slipping” while you eat or talk.
- An option of a non-removable, “permanent” solution. You would not need to worry about removing your teeth for cleaning or maintenance when using dental implants.
- Better comfort. Dentures sit on top of the bone, and over time, the bone wears down. The dentures will not fit as comfortably as implants do as you age.
- Bone preservation. Dental implants provide the bone with the stimulation needed to prevent jaw bone deterioration.
Real Patient Results
Which Option Am I a Good Candidate For?
Due to all of the advantages they provide, dental implants tend to be the superior option overall. For most patients, our periodontist recommend getting dental implants to replace their missing or unhealthy teeth.
There are some exceptions. In some cases, patients may simply lack the bone structure necessary to anchor the implants securely, and bone grafting may not be enough to help. Lack of bone support is prevalent among people who have had teeth missing for a long time and are only now seeking treatment. Our periodontist at Chattanooga Periodontics and Dental Implants will assess your needs and desires and determine a plan which is best-suited for you at an initial consultation.
Visit Our Third-Generation Specialty Dental Office Today!
The best way to make an informed choice between dentures and dental implants is to discuss your dental needs with Dr. Randall. They will take images, assess your teeth and jawbone, and determine the best way to restore your smile and preserve your dental health. Contact us to make an appointment in our Chattanooga, TN practice today. Our goal is to help restore your smile and keep your teeth healthy, functioning and beautiful for a lifetime.
