While dentures offer a solution for missing teeth, many individuals find them inconvenient due to slipping, discomfort, and dietary restrictions. If you’re seeking a more stable and natural-feeling alternative, the answer is likely yes – dental implants can provide a transformative solution.
At Reno Tahoe Oral Surgery & Dental Implant Center, board-certified Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon Dr. Redlinger specializes in dental implant placement. We understand the challenges denture-wearers face and offer advanced implant solutions, often suitable even for those who have been using dentures for an extended period.
Understanding Dentures and Their Limitations
Dentures are removable prosthetic replacements for missing teeth. While they restore aesthetics and some chewing functions, they come with drawbacks:
- Slipping and Discomfort: Dentures rely on suction and adhesives for stability, which can be unreliable, leading to slipping and discomfort, especially while eating or speaking.
- Bone Loss: Missing teeth lead to jawbone resorption. Traditional dentures do nothing to prevent this, further compromising denture fit over time.
- Dietary Limitations: Chewing with dentures can be challenging, limiting your dietary choices and enjoyment of food.
Dental Implants: A Permanent, Stable Solution
Dental implants are small titanium posts surgically placed in the jawbone to act as artificial tooth roots. Once osseointegrated (fused with the bone), they provide a stable foundation for dental crowns, bridges, or implant-supported dentures. Dental implants offer numerous advantages over traditional dentures:
- Enhanced Stability and Confidence: Dental implants fuse with the jawbone, eliminating slipping and discomfort. You can eat, speak, and smile with confidence, knowing your teeth are secure.
- Preserved Jawbone Health: Dental implants stimulate the jawbone, preventing the bone loss associated with missing teeth. This maintains facial structure and supports long-term implant stability.
- Improved Chewing Function: Dental implants function similarly to natural teeth, allowing you to enjoy a wider variety of foods and experience a more natural biting and chewing experience.
Transitioning from Dentures to Dental Implants
The transition from dentures to dental implants can be a transformative experience. Dr. Redlinger will assess your individual situation, including jawbone health and denture use history, to determine the best approach. Here are some possibilities:
- Implant-Supported Dentures: A few strategically placed dental implants can support a fixed or removable denture, providing significantly improved stability and chewing function compared to traditional dentures.
- Individual Dental Implants and Crowns: Dr. Redlinger may recommend replacing individual teeth with dental implants and crowns for a natural, fixed solution for patients with sufficient jawbone density.
- All-on-4® Dental Implants: This innovative technique uses as few as four strategically placed implants to support a full fixed, non-removable arch of teeth. All-on-4® may be an excellent option for those with limited jawbone density.
Taking the First Step Towards a Smile with Bite
Dental implants might be the answer if you’re tired of the limitations of dentures and want a more confident and functional smile. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Redlinger at Reno Tahoe Oral Surgery & Dental Implant Center. Dr. Redlinger will discuss your options, evaluate your candidacy, and create a personalized treatment plan to help you achieve a smile that’s both beautiful and functional. Don’t wait any longer to experience the life-changing benefits of dental implants!
