While traditional dentures are still a viable option for replacing all of your missing teeth at once, more and more patients nowadays are opting to get state-of-the-art implant dentures instead. Could this form of tooth replacement be the best choice for your smile? To find the answer to that question, you’ll need to carefully consider the pros and cons of implant dentures; here’s what you should know before making any long-term commitments.
How Do Implant Dentures Work?
When you decide to get implant dentures, you’ll need to have sturdy dental implant posts surgically inserted into strategic parts of your jawbone. Usually, about four to six posts are required; the exact number depends on your situation. Once the posts have finished fusing with the jawbone, they will be able to support a full denture that has been personalized for your specific mouth.
What are the Pros of Implant Dentures?
Many dentists and patients favor implant dentures thanks to the advantages they offer, such as the following:
- The implant posts provide the jawbone with the stimulation that normally comes from natural teeth. This allows them to actively prevent the bone loss that typically occurs when teeth are missing.
- Unlike traditional dentures that can slip at inopportune times, implant dentures always stay firmly anchored in place, making it easier to speak and chew with confidence in public.
- The chewing power that implant posts can provide is almost on par with that of natural teeth. As such, implant dentures make it possible to eat virtually any kind of food, including the tougher meats and raw vegetables that traditional denture-wearers often have trouble with.
- Implant dentures tend to have a longer lifespan than traditional dentures. Well-cared-for dental implants can often last for 30 years or longer.
What are the Cons of Implant Dentures?
While implant dentures do come with many benefits, it’s also important to be aware of some of the potential disadvantages of the procedure:
- Implant dentures usually cost more than traditional dentures. Note, however, that this is often balanced out by the long-term benefits of an implant-supported prosthesis.
- Placing dental implants requires surgery, and the recovery period after the procedure typically requires months. As such, it can take a while to fully complete the implant denture process.
- Not everyone is able to get implant dentures right away. Some people might need to undergo bone grafting and other preliminary procedures so that they can have dental implants placed.
If you need help deciding whether implant dentures are truly right for you, schedule a consultation with your periodontist. They can review the pros and cons of the treatment with you in more detail, and they can help you decide whether it’s ultimately the best choice for rebuilding your smile.
About the Author
Dr. David Handsman is a highly respected member of the periodontal community. In addition to being a Diplomate of the American Board of Periodontology, he holds membership with the Massachusetts Periodontal Society and other organizations. He offers implant dentures for patients who have suffered from extensive tooth loss. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Handsman at Handsman & Haddad Periodontics in Worcester, visit his website or call (508) 753-5444.
