Tooth loss is a problem that is plaguing America. The American College of Prosthodontists reports that over 35 million people in the U.S. have suffered complete tooth loss, while tens of millions more are missing at least one tooth. Fortunately, with this rise in missing teeth has come the advent of several new treatment options to help fill in the gaps in people’s smiles. If you are missing teeth, you have no shortage of replacement alternatives. Be advised, however, that each carries with it its own pros and cons.
Of all the treatment options out there, the two that are the most the highly utilized are removable dentures and permanent dental implants. Each offers the tooth replacement you are in need of, yet each provides it in a different way.
The Tale of Tape
Dentures are a removable set of teeth that can be attached directly to your gums using a dental adhesive. They do offer the appearance of real teeth, and if cared for properly, may last you several years.
Dental implants are replacement teeth that remain permanently affixed in your mouth. Their placement occurs as follows:
· A titanium screw is inserted into your jaw bone.
· An abutment is placed on top of the screw to hold the tooth in place.
· A permanent crown is affixed to the abutment.
Once implants are in place, you simply care for them as would your normal teeth.
Advantages of Implants Over Dentures
Dentures may serve the same purpose as implants, yet they are often less effective at fulfilling it. For starters, if they are not properly fitted, they can contribute to tooth decay in your surrounding healthy teeth. Plus, because they are handled so often, the likelihood of them being damaged is much higher.
Implants, on the other hand, actually promote improvements in your oral health. They can reverse the effects of jawbone loss by promoting the growth of new, healthy bone. While their initial costs may be higher than that of a set of dentures, that can be recovered over time by not having to replace them every few years.
Ultimately, no other available treatment can offer the same combination of benefits as dental implants. Thus, Drs. Capps and Bowman, along with the rest of our staff are prepared to help you do what is needed to receive such treatment if you do indeed qualify for it. To sit down and discuss your options, contact our office today.