A large number of adult Americans lose at least one tooth as they age. Missing teeth can cause a number of problems involving self-confidence and embarrassment in social encounters. After all, our culture values a bright, cheery smile and lacking two perfect rows of teeth can seriously put a damper on your self-image.
There are numerous alternatives available for adults missing teeth, but one of the most common ones is dentures. These false sets of teeth held in place with paste or adhesive wafers are a low-cost solution to masking an incomplete smile, but they also come with a number of user challenges and can be downright uncomfortable. If you currently wear dentures but they are giving you trouble, now might be the perfect time to consider a more permanent and comfortable alternative: dental implants.
Dental implants provide wearers with many benefits, including naturally-looking, permanent replacement teeth, mouth support and increased comfort. People who find dentures troublesome to wear every day may benefit from switching to dental implants instead—you’ll find yourself smiling even more!
What are dental implants?
Dental implants are non-removable tooth replacements that function just like normal teeth. To get dental implants, your dentist will surgically position metal posts in your jawbone and cover the posts with a single replacement tooth or bridges. Implants can be used to replace single teeth or can be an alternative for dentures with full-mouth replacement.
Since dental implants are securely mounted within your jaw, they provide adequate support to your mouth and the teeth around them, which helps minimize bone and gum deterioration. Implants are designed to last a long time, and many users find their implants will last them a lifetime with proper care.
Some of the biggest benefits of dental implants are the level of comfort, reliability and security they offer wearers. People with dental implants don’t have to worry about teeth slipping or shifting out of place like they might with dentures.
Solving the most common denture problems
While dentures are a common and reliable solution to missing teeth, denture wearers can attest that they come with some problems. Namely, dentures can be difficult to apply and may be uncomfortable to wear, they can interfere with speaking and eating, and can lead to major facial issues like bone deterioration.
Here are some of the most common problems with dentures and how dental implants can provide an alternative.
Awkward application
Dentures can be difficult to apply using paste or adhesive wafers day in and day out, which can be very frustrating for denture-wearers to deal with. On the other hand, dental implants are permanent fixtures in your mouth—just like normal teeth—that don’t need to be removed or repositioned at all!
Interfering with eating or talking
One of the major complaints about dentures is that they can interfere with many everyday activities, such as eating, kissing and smiling. Speaking is particularly challenging for some wearers because dentures can cause awkward mouth motions and mispronunciations of words. If you choose to get dental implants, the replacement teeth will feel just like your normal teeth, letting you eat, smile and speak without any issues.
Embarrassment
Another major complaint about dentures is the embarrassment that sometimes accompanies them. Dentures have a habit of slipping out of place, or worse, falling out, when you least expect it, which can make you feel uncomfortable in public. Because dental implants are permanently fixed, you won’t have to worry about your smile anytime, anywhere.
Gum irritation
Dentures have been known to rub on the gums of wearers and cause irritation and sores, and possibly even mouth infections if they don’t fit or are not properly cleaned. Not only can these problems be extremely uncomfortable, you may need to stop wearing your dentures until the issue is cleared up. However, dental implants only need to be treated like regular teeth with routine brushing and flossing, decreasing the risk of these irritating issues.
Bone deterioration
Wearing dentures can cause deterioration in the jawbone because the bone is not being used to support natural teeth. This can also lead to a face with a sunken appearance. As the only tooth replacement solution that can support and stimulate your jawbone, preventing bone loss and maintaining your face and mouth shape.
Necessary replacement
Dentures must be regularly removed, cleaned and maintained to preserve their quality. Over time, though, dentures wear down and will require replacement. For younger users, this may require the purchase of several sets of dentures over a lifetime. The alternative, dental implants, are designed to be long-lasting and require the standard care you’d normally give to your teeth: brushing, flossing and visiting the dentist. Many people with dental implants maintain their implants so well, they need very little adjustment or replacement over their lifetime!
If you currently wear dentures but are looking for a better and more comfortable alternative, speak with Dr. Ray Hatami to see if you are a good candidate for dental implants. Nobody should have to live in discomfort, nor should they have to feel embarrassed to smile. Switch to dental implants and showcase your smile every day!
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