Dental Implants Vs. Dentures in Denver, CO

Dental Implants Vs. Dentures in Denver, CO

Barotz Dental | September 4, 2019


When we lose our permanent teeth, it can be difficult to decide on your tooth replacement options. At Barotz Dental, we understand how tough these decisions are, and we want to make sure that we continue to be the best option for our patients. Two of the most popular options for the replacement of permanent teeth are dentures and dental implants.

 

While dentures tend to be the most recognized treatment option by our patients, dentists typically recommend dental implants for some of the significant options that they offer. At Barotz Dental, we recognize that this is a very personal decision, so we have created this guide to be able to compare some of the advantages of each approach so you can decide which is best for you.

 
 

Dentures

 

When many patients think about dentures, they think about the stories of George Washington and his wooden dentures. Fortunately, dental science has come a long way and continues to advance the appearance, comfort, fit, and function of dentures. Dentures are made of a single piece of composite material. While dentures are made from a single construction, there are two basic parts. The lower portion of the denture mimics the appearance of the gums and is designed to fit securely over the top of the gums. The upper portion looks and functions just like your natural teeth.

 

Dentures are typically installed in two different appointments. The initial appointment will extract the remaining teeth and get the mouth prepared for the final denture fitting. Same-day dentures can be installed, but these tend to need more adjustment over time to account for changes in swelling and shifting in the mouth after the teeth have been removed. If patients can wait for the gums and mouth to heal, dentures can be fitted once the gums are closer to their normal shape.

 

Because dentures fit over the top of the gums, they require adhesives and adjustments to make sure that they fit tightly and do not slip or move throughout the day. Even small slipping through the day can irritate and inflame the gumline.
 

Additionally, dentures do not require the support of the underlying bone structure. Although this can be a benefit for patients with significant bone loss, dentures are also associated with the process of resorption. This is when the body no longer needs the bone and begins to remove the bone. Resorption can lead to a loss in bone density, function, and can even alter facial appearance.

 
 

Implants

 

In contrast to dentures, dental implants are surgically implanted dental devices that utilize a small titanium post that is placed into the bone underneath the gums. A specially designed crown is then attached to the top of the post. Because the implant is installed directly into the gum, it helps to keep the replacement teeth from moving, slipping, or even falling out.

 

Additionally, the implanted post also helps to not only stop the process of resorption but can also trigger the body to build new bone that increases the density and strength of the jaw. Implants also do not require the use of any special cleaners or adhesives for their routine care.

 

You can simply use a regular toothpaste (avoid abrasive toothpaste that may scratch the implant) and brush your teeth like your normal oral routine.

 

There are also a variety of dental implant procedures available. Patients can opt for a single tooth dental implant, an all-on-four approach, or implant-supported dentures. All-on-four and implant-supported dentures are used to replace an entire arch of teeth, but single implants can also be used to replace all of your teeth.

 
 

Overview

 

If you are considering replacement options for your teeth, call our professional staff at Barotz Dental in Denver, CO to schedule your consultation today (720) 573-1500!