When a person suffers tooth loss, for the health of the surrounding area, the function of their bite, and the aesthetics of their smile, it's crucial that the site be fitted with a tooth replacement solution. Dental implants and partial dentures are popular solutions for patients who've lost one or more teeth and want to restore both the form and function of their mouth and their confidence.
Today we're taking a look at implants and partial dentures and discussing the benefits of each to help those in need choose the most appropriate tooth replacement option.
Dental Implants in Arvada: What You Need to Know
Dental implants are small rods made of medical-grade titanium alloy that are surgically implanted into a patient's jawbone at the site of tooth loss. Dental implants differ from other tooth replacement options in that they address tooth loss not only above the gumline, but also in the jawbone.
A dentist places these small rods in the vacated socket(s) left in the jawbone by the lost tooth/teeth. As the titanium alloy used for implants is biologically compatible with the body, in a matter of weeks after placement, an implant will fuse permanently through a process called "osseointegration" and create a permanent artificial root that functions naturally, prevents a loss of density in the jawbone, and serves as an anchor point for restorations like dental crowns.
Partial Dentures: What You Need to Know
There are two main types of dentures: full and partial. If all the teeth are missing, full dentures are required. In the event of partial tooth loss, partial dentures, which are anchored onto remaining teeth with clasps and customized to a patient's natural smile, are preferable.
Dentures are typically made from tooth-colored porcelain or acrylic resin. It is worth noting that, despite their superior aesthetics, porcelain dentures are more prone to breakage and can wear down adjacent natural teeth. For this reason, acrylic resin, which is less pricy than porcelain, is considered the better option for partial dentures. Unfortunately, acrylic resin is less durable than porcelain, and acrylic resin partials must usually be replaced every 5-8 years.
Dental Implants and Dentures in Arvada, CO
If you're in the Arvada area and are looking for an experienced dentist to educate you about dental implants and partial dentures as long-term tooth replacement options, contact dentist Dr. Jesse Jenkins and the team at Five Parks Dental to schedule a consultation!