Dental Implants Instead Of Full Dentures

Dental Implants Instead Of Full Dentures

Post by : Dr Jack Connan BDS GDC No. 277529 | 8 May 2023

Dental implants are small titanium screws which are placed into the bone. With a high success rate and the procedure being both safe and predictable, its no simple to see why this treatment is becoming more popular. Dental implants are replace both missing or damaged teeth. In the case which we are sharing today we look at a case where a patient had several missing teeth as well as some failed crowns with root canal treatments. Using newer techniques in dental implants treatments the problem teeth were removed and dental implants placed on the same appointment.

Dentures are a viable option for those missing multiple teeth. Though more affordable than dental implants, they do require extra maintenance to ensure proper hygiene and fit. They offer the advantage of being removable throughout daily life but should be taken out before speaking or eating if not secured by denture adhesive, as slipping can occur otherwise.
With regular cleaning and replacement when needed due to wear-and-tear however, dentures provide an accessible alternative solution that have been relied on since historical times! Some of the pros of dentures include:

1. Dentures offer an affordable solution to replacing missing teeth, when compared with more expensive and permanent implant options.
2. Dentures are an excellent modern solution for those who have suffered from severe bone and gum loss, providing a more comfortable alternative to implants which must be securely adhered in place.
3. Dentures can provide an effective, non-invasive solution to restore a patient’s smile. Patients no longer have to worry about invasive drilling into the bone–a common procedure with implants–with this option.
4. Crafting dentures doesn’t have to be a long and drawn out process. They can be made with in a couple of weeks!

There are several advantages to placing dental implants immediately following the extraction of teeth.

1. Immediately following the extraction of a tooth there is some bone loss. By placing an implant during the same appointment the bone loss can be minimized provided suitable bone grafting was completed.
2. If the implant is stable after implant placement it may be able to support a provisional implant crown. This can be advantageous as the patient avoids using a removable denture or having a space during the implant or extraction healing period.
3. The patient undergoes less procedures and in turn makes the whole implant placement process more comfortable.
4. The surrounding bone and gum tissue architecture is more closely maintained.
5. The length of time to complete treatment is reduced.

It must be pointed out that immediate loading of dental implants is not always possible. In cases where the jaw bone is limited in volume or density the implant will need longer healing time before it is fully integrated. In such cases we say that the implant procedure will be completed by means of a 2 stage approach. The implant is usually left buried underneath the gum tissues for a period of 3-6 months while the bone tissue heals. Bone grafts may take up to 12 months to heal.

Dental implants are steadily becoming the preferred alternative to dentures due to their long-lasting and cost effective nature. Not only do they require fewer trips for maintenance than traditional dentures, but these permanent teeth replacements also save you money in the long run – making them an ideal option for those looking for a lasting solution.

If you would like to replace your missing teeth and chew your food better please call us on 0208 399 4311  to book an appointment.