Gone are the days where the only solution for missing teeth are dentures. Today, dental implants are becoming more and more popular as a treatment choice. There is a misconception that only the elderly suffer from missing teeth which is why dentures are marketed to the older generation. The truth is, there are many reasons why a person can lose their permanent teeth before they become a senior citizen.
Patients who are looking for the right dental treatment to address their missing teeth should compare dentures versus the all on four dental implants as possible solutions. Here’s everything you need to know about either option:
What Are Dentures?
Almost everyone is familiar with dentures. These are fake teeth that are placed over the gums and inside the mouth to help with chewing and to allow people to smile without feeling self-conscious. Dentures can be customized to fit with the shape and size of the patient’s gums and mouth but will require several adjustments throughout its use.
What Are All On Four Dental Implants?
All on four implants is a recent breakthrough in implantology that is highly recommended for patients who have lost the majority of their permanent teeth. It is a restorative dental procedure that involves surgery to install titanium posts into the jaw bone.
Once healed, a full set of prosthetic teeth can be anchored to the posts allowing patients to look as if they have a full set of teeth.
The Drawbacks
There is no denying that all on four implants require up to 18 months of dental consultations, surgeries, and healing before the procedure is complete. Other drawbacks worth considering is the price as well as your own candidacy. Not everyone can afford this type of procedure and some who can, may not be in good health to proceed.
Regular dentures, on the other hand, may be uncomfortable, especially when the fit is not perfect. They may also slip out at the most inconvenient and embarrassing moments. Plus the fact that dentures need daily care to ensure they stay in good condition. This will require patients to visit their dentist more than usual so that the dentures fit inside the mouth perfectly.
The Positives
After surgery and healing, all on four implants can be anchored to their posts and all is well. Less care is required and dental visits will be further apart the moment the implants are in place. Fully anchored prosthetic teeth also do not move, slip, or require removal every night, making them less of a hassle.
Dentures are an inexpensive option. Dentists will only take a cast of the mouth, create the fake teeth and patients can wear them right away. It is easy and very accessible for just about everyone.
What’s Right For You?
The right choice depends on your overall oral health, budget, time, and goals. The only way to know for sure whether you should go for the implants or stick with dentures is to consult with your dentist. They will give you more information on both options to help you choose the right solution.
Want to have that perfect smile back? At Northern Virginia Oral, Maxillofacial & Implant Surgery we also offer all on four dental implants. Contact us today to learn more about it.
