The loss of a tooth can compromise your confident smile, while also making it more challenging to bite and chew. If you are experiencing significant tooth loss, one solution is to get secure dentures. At Reno Tahoe Oral Surgery & Dental Implant Center, we are pleased to offer a full spectrum of dental care to our patients in the Reno, NV area.
Pros and Cons of Getting Dentures
Dentures are a familiar form of tooth replacement, and while they do not offer the same advanced benefits as dental implants, they can still be a viable and effective solution.
Dentures vs. Dental implants
There are a couple of ways in which dentures may be a better choice than dental implants. For one, they can be secured without the need for surgical intervention, making them an ideal option for patients who are ineligible for surgery or who do not wish to deal with anesthesia, downtime, and other surgical considerations. Additionally, the upfront cost for dentures is usually lower than it is for implants.
Downsides include:
- Unlike dental implants, dentures do not stimulate the jawbone or help prevent bone atrophy. As such, you may experience unwanted changes to your facial appearance.
- Dentures do not offer the same security as implants. While some types of dentures are designed to be removed, dental implants are intended to be permanent.
- Dentures do not have the same longevity as implants. They need to be replaced more often, which means they may cost more over the long haul.
Are There Any Other Alternatives?
When you meet with our doctor for a consultation, you can ask about the range of tooth replacement methods available, including different types of prostheses that can be anchored in place with dental implants. In some cases, bridges may also be an option for tooth replacement.
Types of Dentures to Consider
During your initial consultation, our doctor will provide information about the different types of dentures available, helping you determine the best prostheses to address your tooth replacement needs.
The main types of dentures include removable and fixed. A removable denture is held in place with a combination of adhesives and suction. These dentures can be removed once or twice daily for cleaning and can also be taken out when you go to sleep at night.
Fixed dentures are held in place by dental implants. Much more secure in nature, these dentures do require surgery to anchor the implants in place, followed by a few months of healing and fusion with the surrounding bone. This is a good, stable option if you need to have entire dental rows replaced. Often, fixed dentures can be secured with as few as four total implants.
How Much Do Dentures Cost?
The cost of dentures can vary depending on a number of factors, including the type of dentures you choose, the number of implants required, and the types of preparatory procedures required (such as the extraction of unhealthy teeth). When you join us for a consultation, we can provide a more personalized estimate, along with information about insurance and financing.
What to Expect When Getting Dentures: The Process
Your denture journey will begin with a consultation, allowing our doctor an opportunity to evaluate your teeth and gums and confirm that dentures are a viable option. This is also a great opportunity for you to ask any questions you may have about the process, the cost, and the longevity of your results.
If you choose to have dentures supported by implants, you will receive anesthesia on the day of your implant placement, promoting your comfort and safety. The dental implants will be carefully placed into the jawbone, then left to heal for a few months. A temporary prosthesis may be used until your implants are ready for the final, custom prosthesis.
After Dentures are Placed
Following the placement of a denture, it may take several days for you to get used to your new set of teeth. Initially, you may experience some awkwardness chewing or speaking, but most patients return to their normal activities within a week or so. You can also expect some mild irritation during this initial recovery period, but over-the-counter medications can help keep symptoms in check.
We will provide any instructions you need regarding implant cleaning and care. We also recommend keeping regular dental appointments to ensure the proper upkeep of your teeth, your gums, and your jawbone.
You’re in Good Hands with Reno-Tahoe OMS
Dentures are a tried-and-true option for replacing missing teeth. Our practice has extensive experience providing denture care, both secured and fixed, to patients in the Reno, NV community. To learn more about your denture options, schedule a consultation with Reno Tahoe Oral Surgery & Dental Implant Center at (775) 853-9696.