While traditional dentures have long been the golden standard for replacing several or all missing teeth along an arch, they’ve since been outshined by the variety of unique benefits offered by dental implants. This leading-edge solution to tooth loss replaces not only the visible surface of teeth, but also the roots underneath, with strong titanium posts. As a result, patients are able to benefit from improved stability and teeth that not only look more natural, but also feel more natural. Read on to learn more about what it would take to upgrade your smile by making the transition from dentures to dental implants.
What’s the Difference Between Dentures & Implant Dentures?
Dentures are designed to replace the visible portion of missing teeth to not only improve the appearance of your smile, but also provide you with some chewing power to make eating foods and speaking easier. While effective, they may not fit well with everyone’s lifestyles, as they can slip and shift within the mouth and don’t prevent secondary oral health concerns caused by missing roots, like jawbone erosion.
Dental implants provide dentures with a strong, unwavering support system to be attached to. The implants themselves are small titanium posts that are surgically placed below the gumline and into the jawbone. Due to their biocompatible nature, they’re able to fuse with the bone and provide it with necessary blood flow and support to keep it from eroding over time. Because of this, the dental structure experiences less change over the years, allowing your restoration to last much longer.
How Long Will It Take to Get Dental Implants if You Have Dentures?
If you have had dentures for quite a while and don’t have enough jawbone to fuse with your implants, you may require preparatory treatments, like a bone graft, before you can undergo dental implant placement surgery. This adds an additional healing time onto your procedure.
Typically, getting dental implants can take anywhere from six months to over a year, depending on your current dental health. But the best way to learn what your individual timeline will look like is to schedule a consultation with an implant dentist in Irving for a more in-depth evaluation.
Are Dental Implants Worth It?
If you’re wondering whether dental implants are worth the investment, think about how happy you are with your dentures! For many people, traditional dentures are a great fit, but for those looking for replacement teeth that not only look real, but also feel natural, as well as desire to stop the gradual deterioration of their dental structure, dental implants are likely the best option.
About the Author
Dr. Rafiq Hirji has over a decade of experience in the dental field and has completed countless hours of specialty training and continuing education. He is proud to offer start-to-finish dental implant treatments, allowing his patients to stick with the same, trusted dentist and team throughout their entire journey. To learn whether you’re a good candidate for dental implants, visit Daily Smiles MacArthur Dental & Orthodontics’ website or call 972-546-4114 to schedule a consultation.