If it’s come time to replace missing teeth in your mouth, you’ll want to understand the differences between dental implants, implant secured dentures, bridges and dentures
About dental implants
Dental implants are a permanent solution to replace missing teeth. When Dr. Jayne places your dental implant, he uses biocompatible materials which bond with your jawbone and prevent further deterioration. The placement of one or more dental implants can improve the health of your whole mouth, and help you smile and chew with confidence again.
A dental implant looks, feels and functions just like a natural, healthy tooth. The implant itself is essentially post that is surgically placed in your jawbone. Then, the implant post is topped with a tooth-colored dental crown to fully restore your missing tooth or missing teeth. No one will know that you have a dental implant because it is designed to mimic a natural tooth.
Some implant patients, who are missing all of their upper or lower teeth, choose to have implant secured dentures. For implant secured dentures, Dr. Jayne surgically places four or six implants in the jawbone of your upper or lower arch. Over time, these implants naturally fuse with your jawbone and prevent further bone deterioration. Dentures then snap onto the implants, which are also called All-on-4 or All-on-6. Implant secured dentures restore tooth function up to 80% compared to just 25% with traditional dentures. This means your teeth will look great and you’ll be able to enjoy the foods you love with greater ease.
Benefits of Dental Implants
- Fully restored tooth function
- Look and feel like real teeth
- Permanent and don’t need to be removed to be cleaned
- No need for adhesives
- Long-lasting and durable
- Retain ability to fully taste food
- Prevent deterioration of jawbone and support good dental health
Drawbacks of Dental Implants
- Costly and may not be covered by insurance
- Surgery is required
When to consider a bridge
Another option to replace several missing teeth is a bridge. Bridges are less expensive than implants and don’t require surgery. Bridges function similarly to normal teeth and are held in place by other healthy teeth.
For one or two missing teeth, a bridge is a great option. However, bridges are not a permanent option. They typically last only about 5 to 10 years and can damage surrounding teeth if not properly fitted.
Benefits of Bridges
- Cost less than implants
- Usually covered by insurance
- Don’t require surgery
Cons of Bridges
- Not a permanent solution and will need to be replaced
- Can damage healthy teeth around the missing tooth
- Won’t prevent your jawbone from deteriorating further
- Can lose natural looking appearance over time
Dentures
For centuries, dentures have been the go-to solution for people who are missing many or all of their teeth. There are a few denture options to choose from.
Implant secured dentures are the most structurally and visually appealing option. Implants are surgically inserted into your jawbone and replace the roots of your teeth. From there, dentures are made that snap into place, for a sturdy and stable chewing function that look and feel like real teeth.
Cosmetic dentures
Cosmetic dentures offer many patients a superior look and fit than other denture options. Dr. Jayne is specially trained to design and deliver cosmetic dentures. First, Dr. Jayne takes your skin tone, eye color and facial bone structure are taken into account. From there, he measures your face and mouth using a precision process. Finally, Dr. Jayne ensures your dentures are made to fit to the sides of your jaw bones, rather than just sit on top, providing improved function for many denture wearers.
Additionally, Dr. Jayne can design implant-secured cosmetic dentures.
Benefits of Cosmetic Dentures
- Fills out lower third of face
- Smooths wrinkles around the mouth
- Costs less than full implants
- Insurance often covers part of the cost
If it’s time to replace missing teeth in your mouth, schedule a smile visit with Dr. Jayne today. We’ll be happy to walk you through the options that are best for you.
