When it comes to dental issues, patients hope for just the right solution to best suit their needs. Too often, patients who are suffering with some kind of dental issue lack the options that they need to make the best, most informed treatment decision for themselves. At Advanced Periodontics & Implant Dentistry, we offer our patients more than one solution option for each dental issue and we explain each option in detail. Why do we do this? We believe in focusing just as much on the patient’s overall health as we do on the appearance of their smile.
Dentures
When it comes to solutions for missing teeth, dentures are always an offered option. Whether the patient is receiving a full denture or a partial denture, both denture types carry out the same function. These removable appliances serve to immediately restore the missing teeth, providing the patient with a full, functioning set of teeth.
With the help of dentures, patients regain the ability to eat and speak normally. In addition, dentures serve to restore the appearance of the patient’s face. Without teeth, the muscles of the face lack support. This causes the face to sulk and the cheeks to sink inward towards the gums.
When it comes to a permanent solution, however, dentures may not be the most beneficial option. It is important to understand the effects of having dentures for an elongated amount of time. Understanding the repercussions of permanently wearing dentures will allow the patient to make a more educated and more health-conscious decision for the longevity of their bone health.
Denture Related Bone Loss
Although dentures are a quick and easy fix to missing teeth, they are proven to cause major issues over time. Due to the pressure that the dentures put onto the jaw bone, the jaw bone begins to shrink. Accelerated bone loss is the main effect of extended denture use, causing the denture to become loose in the patient’s mouth over time. The instability of the denture leads to the patient, once again, having difficulty eating and speaking. The facial atrophy caused by the accelerated bone loss leads to premature aging and unnecessary discomfort.
Additional denture-related dangers include the harmful ingredients found in denture adhesives. Some denture adhesives have been proven to cause harm to the nervous system, as they can be poisonous.
Bone Restoration and Preservation Options
Dental Implants are a means to restoring and preserving the jaw bone, as the presence of implants stimulates the surrounding bone. This is why implants are the more beneficial option, both physically and financially. Implants will restore and preserve the bone, as well as save the patient money in the long run. Keeping up with dentures and their health repercussions can become financially draining, whereas implants are a permanent and full-proof restorative option.