Quite frankly, I have patients who wear dentures and partials and are perfectly satisfied with them. We pride ourselves on creating an optimal result for every need. However, when discussing treatment with our patients, we want to make sure they are fully informed on all options, including the advantages and disadvantages of each.
When it comes to tooth replacement, I am a proponent of Dental Implants for many reasons. Dental Implants are designed to last a lifetime and require no repairs, root canals, and are self-supporting. This means that implants do not rely on adjoining natural teeth to serve as crowned supports, as with a crown-&-bridge combination. For some, the only hesitation is the cost, since the fees for implants are upfront and may not be fully covered by insurance.
Americans no longer wash clothes on a wash board with a bar of soap even though this cleans much cheaper than a washing machine. Yet, the washing machine provides more efficiency and gives the user a far better experience while being more practical for today’s fabrics. It just makes sense and is well worth the investment.
Although dentures and partials replace the presence of teeth, they are a merely filling empty space. At one time, they were better than no teeth at all and enabled an adult to have some ability to chew. However, denture wearers endure all sorts of problems; some problems that are obvious and others they are not.
A typical problem of denture wearers is an unstable fit. This is the result of the ever-decreasing jaw bone that once supported natural tooth roots. Without tooth roots to stimulate the jaw bone, the bone begins to shrink. The pressure from wearing dentures speeds this process. When denture wearers sleep in their dentures, the rate of this bone loss accelerates from the 24/7 pressure on the jaw bone.
This is the reason long-time denture wearers develop a “granny look.” Their faces have a collapsed look with chins that become pointed. Jowls form when facial muscles detach and the entire face takes on an aged appearance far beyond their actual years.
When dentures do not fit securely due to bone loss, the constant rubbing and discomfort often causes the wearer to resort to a soft diet of foods that dissolve easily in the mouth. These foods often lack protein and fiber. Not only is what you eat important to having good health, being able to chew thoroughly and comfortably is important. Remember, digestion begins in the mouth. It is a fact that denture wearers have a higher level of gastrointestinal problems than non-denture wearers and take more medications.
Because food is often the centerpiece of social gatherings, people with unstable dentures, who are uncomfortable eating or speaking, often decline invitations for fear of embarrassing moments. Studies have shown denture wearers eat out less often and even wear less make-up.
Regardless of the advancements made in denture and partial design, they are outdated when compared to the advantages of Dental Implants. No denture adhesive, paste or reline will ever make a denture a good substitute for natural teeth. Dental advancements have focused so intently on implant dentistry because they have proven to be a dependable, reliable means of tooth replacement that makes better sense.
Begin with a no-cost consultation by calling 1-866-9-Smiles. We’ll discuss your options as well as payment plans that enable you to enjoy the confident smile you desire.
