Dentures are a cost-effective solution for replacing a full arch of missing teeth. And while they restore function and some degree of confidence, many people feel self-conscious wearing dentures, afraid the false teeth will slip out of place when chewing or speaking. Properly fitted dentures can still create pressure sores, be a constant source of discomfort, and cause noticeable changes in speech patterns.
Fortunately, dentures are not the only option for restoring your smile. Whether you have a few missing teeth or need to replace both upper and lower arches, there are great alternatives available at Long Island Implant & Cosmetic Dentistry.
Dental Implants – the best denture alternative
The biggest problem with dentures is not in their appearance or functionality. It’s the fact that they do not address bone loss. After losing one or multiple teeth, the underlying jaw bone begins to recede and deteriorate. Over the years, this produces a sunken facial appearance that can make you look much older.
The easiest way to stop bone loss is by recreating the roots of missing teeth, which is exactly what a dental implant does. Dental implants are securely anchored with small titanium posts that fuse with the bone. This post stimulates the bone tissue, keeping it healthy and alive.
After osseointegration has taken place, custom-made crowns are then affixed to the top of the screws, giving patients a beautiful, new smile. Unlike dentures, which need to be replaced every 5-7 years, implants can last a lifetime when properly cared for.
Dental implants can restore a single lost tooth, or several missing teeth scattered throughout the mouth. For patients who need an entire smile makeover, the All-on-4 protocol is a fantastic solution. Also known as “same day implants,” this treatment requires just four implants to support a full arch of replacement teeth.
Tooth-supported bridge
Another alternative to dentures is a fixed bridge that is supported by your natural teeth. This may be recommended for people who are only missing one or a couple of adjacent teeth.
With a tooth-supported fixed bridge, the anchor teeth are prepped for a crown, and a pontic bridges the gap. The pontic can be made from different materials, but porcelain generally lends a more natural-looking appearance.
Overdentures
Overdentures are generally used in patients who are missing most of their teeth. This modality offers more stability compared to traditional dentures because they are held in place with dental implants, rather than adhesives. Overdentures make chewing and talking more comfortable, and most patients find them aesthetically superior to regular dentures.
Ask a Long Island dentist about your options
If you have lost some teeth, but don’t want the drawbacks and hassles of dentures, give Long Island Implant & Cosmetic Dentistry a call. Our Suffolk County cosmetic dentists can review the best tooth replacement options that fit your lifestyle, preferences, and budget.
To schedule a complimentary consultation, please call our Rocky Point, NY office or send us a message online.
Additional Resources:
- AAID, Implants versus dentures and bridges https://www.aaid-implant.org/dental-implants/implants-vs-dentures-and-bridges/
- Healthline, False Teeth: What You Should Know https://www.healthline.com/health/false-teeth
