While traditional dentures boast their own unique benefits, like their cost-effectiveness, dental implants are revered as the top choice for replacing missing teeth. Although they have a higher price tag, patients are able to enjoy a smile that feels natural in addition to beautiful aesthetics. If you’re thinking of making the switch from dentures to dental implants, read below to learn more about what you can expect that process to look like.
What’s the Difference Between Dentures & Dental Implants?
The primary difference between dentures and dental implants is that dentures are secured atop the gumline using natural suction. Partial dentures are able to fill gaps throughout the arch by slotting in place between the existing teeth, like a puzzle piece. As a result, patients often notice that their dentures dislodge while eating and speaking, creating embarrassing moments and difficulties doing basic daily tasks.
Instead of natural suction, dental implants utilize small metal posts that are surgically placed below the gumline and into the jawbone, where the natural roots of teeth once were. Due to the biocompatible nature of the materials used, dental implants can fuse with the bone through a process called osseointegration, creating a strong and stable foundation for a denture, bridge, or crown to be attached to.
How Long Will It Take to Switch from Dentures to Implant Dentures?
The transition from dentures to implant dentures can take a while. This is predominantly due to the fact that the dental implants will need to fuse with the jawbone for six to 12 months following their placement in order to support the restoration. For some people who have had dentures for a while, preparatory treatments like bone grafting may also be necessary due to jawbone deterioration that occurs when the tooth roots are no longer providing necessary blood flow to the area. These types of treatments can add several months to your dental implant timeline.
The best way to know how long your transition will take is to schedule a consultation with your dental implant dentist in DuPont so they can outline a treatment plan for you.
What New Benefits Can You Enjoy with Implant Dentures?
Implant dentures are considered the top-tier option for replacing missing teeth because of the variety of unique benefits that they offer. Some of these distinguishing advantages include:
- A lifespan of 30+ years with good oral hygiene and routine professional maintenance.
- Up to 80% restored bite power.
- Natural looking and feeling results.
- No slipping or shifting when eating or speaking.
- Easy maintenance, as the restorations are permanently secured within the mouth.
- The prosthetic used with dental implants is much smaller, making it more comfortable and functional.
You can start your journey towards a healthier, happier, and more permanent smile today by learning whether you qualify for dental implants. Although the up-front haul of transitioning may seem like a lot, countless patients will agree that the benefits make it well worthwhile!
About the Practice
Drs. John Ludu and Rhenu Sharma have several collective decades of experience practicing dentistry. They take pride in offering leading-edge, highly successful treatments for tooth loss, like dental implants, to offer patients life-changing, confidence-boosting results that can last for decades. For questions or to schedule a consultation to learn whether you’re a candidate for dental implants, visit DuPont Family Dentistry’s website or call 253-964-7000.