These days there are a host of options for replacing missing teeth. Appliances such as dentures or dental bridges are traditional and relatively affordable, which can make them appealing for many people. For the best function and appearance, however, Dr. Robert Cain recommends dental implants wherever possible.
Better Esthetics
Because they are a solid, static piece with plastic gums, dentures can have a tendency to look unnatural. Partial dentures and dental bridges are sometimes attached by visible wires that many find unsightly. Dental implants, however, are rooted directly into the jaw, so there is no visible attachment mechanism. Individually placed implants can give the best possible results and should be indistinguishable from natural teeth.
Solid Placement
Traditional dentures are held in place with a dental adhesive. While this adhesive is strong, it is not infallible. Over time, as your gums change, your dentures sometimes slip when you least want them to, regardless of the adhesive. The glue sometimes also contains zinc which, while fine in small quantities can cause health problems including nerve damage in excess. Dental bridges are more permanent, often secured by two crowns on either side of the gap. The downside to this method is that two otherwise healthy teeth are damaged. Because neither of these attachment methods is stimulating the jawbone the way the roots of the teeth do, bone loss is a common problem. Bone loss allows your dentures to loosen over time and can also lead other surrounding teeth to loosen and even fall out.
Dental implants answer all these problems. The metal implant is placed into the jaw, providing stable support without affecting the surrounding teeth. The implant also stimulates the jaw to prevent bone loss.
Maintain Your Lifestyle
Tired of the unreliable nature of removable appliances? Dentures can slip at the least convenient times, which is embarrassing and uncomfortable. What you can eat is also limited when it comes to dentures – crunchy or chewy foods can damage the appliance or injure your gums. Dental implants are permanently placed and made from a dental resin or ceramic that mimics natural teeth. You can eat what you want and care for them just as you would your other teeth.
Schedule a Consultation
To begin your dental implant process, schedule a consultation with East Tennessee Periodontics today. To schedule, contact our Knoxville, TN office on our website or at (865) 280-1173.
