At My Dentist Canberra, we know that missing teeth can have a significant impact on your speech, eating and ability to chew. Dentures have long been an excellent solution to solve this problem. Modern dentistry has come a long way since decades ago, with dental implants and bridges now making a big difference in patient’s lives. Depending on your budget, lifestyle and oral needs, this article will explore other alternatives to dentures that may be more suitable for your specific requirements and help you make a more informed decision.
Overview of Traditional Dentures
Dentures are an easily accessible, functional and removable prosthetic device that replaces missing teeth. There are generally two types to choose from: complete dentures (which is recommended when all teeth are gone) and partial dentures (where some natural teeth still remain but the majority of teeth are missing). Dentures are made from a high-quality acrylic and resin material, with a lightweight metal frame attached for easy application.
Why choose dentures?
Dentures are customised and moulded to suit your mouth, jaw and face shape. It also helps prevent that sunken face appearance, which can happen when there is nothing there to support the overall face structure. They are specifically designed to recreate your own natural bite and teeth movement, with no need for invasive surgery. It’s an excellent, practical and affordable choice for many patients experiencing major tooth loss.
Why dentures may not be a good option for you?
Some dentures can shift and move while chewing and speaking, causing some discomfort and frustration. It also doesn’t’ prevent bone loss in the jaw, which can cause further deterioration over time. Only dental implants or bridges can keep the jaw bone in tact over a longer period of time. Keep in mind, a safe adhesive may still need to be used to keep the dentures in place.
Your state or territory government may provide support to get cheaper dental services. Click here for more information: https://my.gov.au/en/services/work/managing-the-cost-of-living/managing-health-care-costs/help-paying-for-dental-or-optical
Dental Implants: Solid & Permanent
Unlike dentures, dental implants can’t be removed at the end of the day. Using small, screw like posts made from high quality titanium, they are permanently fixed implants that integrate into the jawbone to replace missing tooth roots. A crown is then attached to replicate a natural tooth to ensure it looks as natural as possible.
Why choose dental implants?
There are many reasons to choose dental implants as an alternative teeth replacement. When compared to dentures, implants create a more solid foundation, fusing itself into the jawbone. The implant doesn’t move or shift out of place, maintaining jawbone density and strength over time. This process may take some time to heal but once this is complete and feeling good, an abutment is attached to connect the implant to a custom-made crown.
The crown is carefully constructed to match the shape, colour and size of your natural teeth – restoring the function and appearance of your smile. Dental implants deliver a durable, strong and permanent solution for tooth loss.
Why dental implants may not be a good option for you?
When compared to dentures and bridges, dental implants come with a higher upfront cost- anywhere between $4,000-$7,000 per tooth. Depending on the complexity of your procedure, this cost can increase even higher, particularly if bone grafting needs to be done.
In some cases, undergoing this procedure does come with some risk including infection and nerve damage.
It can also take months for healing to happen, with pain and swelling common side effects after surgery. Dental implants also require strict oral hygiene, with gentle care and management to ensure a greater chance of success. Unlike dentures, dental implants are a stand out as a more advanced tooth replacement solution.
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Dental Bridges: Fixed Dental Anchors
A Dental Bridge is a procedure whereby artificial teeth are anchored to the surrounding natural teeth. Nearby teeth are reshaped and refitted with crowns to hold the bridge in place. Similar to dental implants, bridges help to restore chewing, speech and jaw structure – delivering a natural and long-lasting tooth replacement solution.
Why choose dental bridges?
There are several advantages dental bridges offer over dentures. The cost sits between dentures and implants, so it’s slightly in the mid-range when it comes to price. They are still fixed in place which delivers good stability and comfort while eating, speaking and chewing. In terms of longevity, you can expect dental bridges to last between 10-15 years, if proper oral hygiene is maintained. Bridges also prevent further bone loss and support teeth alignment with surrounding teeth.
Dentures need to be removed for daily cleaning, whereas bridges and dental implants don’t need removal, as they are fixed in place – providing a natural looking option for teeth replacement. It’s also a much faster process. If you’re budget conscious but prefer to have something more permanent, bridges could be the right choice over implants.
Why dental bridges may not be a good option for you?
Dental bridges will not last as long as dental implants, so revisiting the dentist within 10 years for teeth replacement may need to be factored into your decision. Also, to achieve a more natural shape, some of the surrounding teeth will need to be reshaped to ensure a good fit and extra strength.
If both teeth are healthy on either side of the missing tooth, the end result will be much better. Bridges may also compromise surrounding teeth, which can impact oral health.
Some Key Factors to Consider with Teeth Replacement
- Budget
Dentures are the most cost-effective solution when paid upfront, while dental implants can be on the higher end of the spectrum, depending on the complexity of the work involved. This can be up to $10,000 for each individual tooth replacement.
- Condition Of Teeth
The overall condition of your teeth will determine which option is better for you. This includes the number of remaining teeth you have, gum health and general bone density.
- Fixed or Removable
Teeth replacement comes down to personal preference and what feels most comfortable for you – either fixed or removable. The choice is yours depending on lifestyle needs.
- Short or Long-Term Solution
Dentures have a shorter lifespan when compared to implants and bridges. This is something to think about before making your decision.
- Natural Look & Feel
Dentures may take a while to get used to while implants and bridges deliver a more natural looking appearance.
Are Dentures the Right Choice for You?
In summary, dentures have long been the most affordable choice when it comes to teeth replacement. They are accessible and functional, which makes them an excellent option for many patients. If you’re not interested in going down the surgical path, may be another reason to give dentures a go. It’s also important that your decision aligns with your lifestyle, preference and general expectations around removable teeth.
Dental implants and bridges on the other hand, have a come a long way in terms of medical advancement, delivering exceptional comfort, stability and longevity. If you have the extra budget, and prefer teeth that are fixed in place, dental implants and bridges are both excellent choices. For more information on our range of teeth replacement solutions, please get in touch with My Dentist Canberra today.
Questions about dental bridges and potential alternatives
How do I know if dentures are the best option for me?
The only way to know what works best for you is to book a thorough consultation with a denture specialist. They will determine whether partial or complete dentures is the best choice moving forward. The main advantage is that it’s more affordable than dental implants and bridges.
What are some other alternatives to dentures?
The two most popular alternatives to dentures are bridges with a crown placed on top of the tooth or dental implants. Implants involve a surgical procedure and act like a natural tooth, while a bridge is a fixed restoration anchored to the teeth next to it.
Are dental implants a better choice over dentures?
Dental implants are the superior option, particularly in terms of stability, comfort and functionality. However, they are less affordable and require surgery, which may not suit every patient. Dentures are most cost-effective and are removable, not fixed.
How do dental bridges compare to dentures?
A dental bridge is very similar to a dental implant – it is fixed and not removable. This provides more stability than dentures, which can sometimes move and cause discomfort when chewing, eating and speaking.
I’m struggling to make a decision – which option is right?
This really comes down to personal preference. Your dentist can assess your individual situation including your oral health, missing teeth and budget. This will make the final decision easier as you walk through the process.
