Losing adult teeth can be a traumatic event. Not only does your confidence suffer, but you may be at risk for other serious dental problems. Dentures are a popular solution for restoring your ability to talk, chew, and smile.
Dr. Bridges and our compassionate team at Chisholm Trail Smile Center want you to have a strong and healthy smile. We may recommend dentures if you are missing several or more teeth, but the type we recommend will depend on other factors like:
- How many teeth you’re missing
- Your overall physical and oral health
- Tooth sensitivity
- Jawbone health
Choosing the right type of dentures for you is an important step, and we want you to have all of the information you need to feel confident in your decision. To help you stay informed, here are the pros and cons of common types of dentures.
Traditional Dentures
When you think of dentures, chances are you picture traditional ones. Traditional dentures are removable replacements for an entire arch of missing teeth. They are supported by your gum tissue and bone and may be held in place with a dental adhesive.
Pros
- Traditional dentures restore the look of your smile.
- This style of denture is relatively affordable.
- The process only takes a few weeks to complete.
Cons
- They may limit some of the foods you can eat.
- They require adhesive which can be messy and inconvenient.
- They do not prevent bone loss in your jaw.
In summary, the traditional options restore much of the appearance and function of your teeth, but they do not prevent the bone deterioration that occurs with tooth loss.
Partial Dentures
For patients who are missing just a few teeth, partials are a good option. These are similar to traditional prosthetics but are not meant to replace an entire set of teeth. They are also supported by the gums and jaw but may also use dental clasps for added stability.
Pros
- Partials are easy to adapt to.
- If needed, they can be adjusted to add teeth.
- They are minimally invasive and relatively affordable.
Cons
- Partial dentures also do not prevent bone loss, and deterioration at the site can affect other teeth.
- They may cause a buildup of plaque around the adjacent teeth.
- Adjacent teeth may suffer trauma from the movement or pressure of the partial.
Since partial implants must be removed at night, they can negatively impact the teeth on either side of them. They are also not as stable as implant-supported dentures.
Implant-Supported Dentures
With a patient satisfaction rate of over 99%, dental implants are the most reliable method for anchoring restorative dental prosthetics. Implant-supported dentures are attached to titanium posts that act as a replacement for the roots of your missing teeth.
Pros
- Implant-supported prosthetics are a stable, permanent solution to tooth loss.
- They don’t restrict your diet.
- Since the posts act as a natural root, they stimulate the jaw bone and prevent bone recession.
Cons
- The process for obtaining dental implants can be lengthy.
- They are a more expensive option than traditional or partial dentures.
- The osseointegration process may take a long time.
If you choose implant-supported dentures, Dr. Bridges will recommend a specialist to place your implants. After that, we will create and attach your personalized prosthetics.
Learn More About Dentures in Duncan, OK
Bring back your confidence with a beautiful and functional smile! Visit our knowledgeable and caring team for expert dental care. To learn more about dentures or to schedule a consultation, call 580-255-4880 or contact us online to start your journey today!
