Restore Dental Function with Denture Alternatives
Extensive tooth loss can take the enjoyment out of eating, smiling, and talking. Dentures replace missing teeth to help alleviate the pain and discomfort caused by tooth loss.
Although dentures are effective at replacing missing teeth, they are not the only option. At Gooch Family Dental, we offer several denture alternatives to patients in and around Birmingham, AL. To find out which treatment for tooth loss is right for you, we welcome you to schedule a consultation.
Why Consider Denture Alternatives?
Traditional dentures are a popular option for replacing missing teeth, but they may not be the best option for everyone who suffers from tooth loss. Some patients seek denture alternatives because they desire a treatment that is both more stable and that feels more natural.
Traditional dentures often feel like a prosthetic device in the mouth, despite having a good fit. Even with adhesives, dentures can slip and slide, which can make it difficult to eat certain foods. Denture movement can even affect speech.
Because of these downsides and others, patients who want greater comfort and security than traditional dentures may benefit from the following alternatives.
Dental Implants
Dental implants are surgically placed titanium posts that act as artificial tooth roots. The implants fuse with the jawbone, providing unparalleled stability. Different restorations can be attached to dental implants to replace one or more missing teeth.
When paired with dental crowns, dental implants can replace individual teeth. Although a full set of teeth could be replaced this way, it’s not the most efficient way to restore a full arch of teeth. Instead, dental implants may be paired with implant-supported bridges or implant-supported dentures, replacing multiple teeth with fewer implants.
Implant-Supported Bridges
Implant-supported bridges are similar to traditional bridges and consist of one or more artificial teeth sandwiched by two dental crowns. Rather than the crowns attaching to the remaining teeth as with traditional bridges, implant-supported bridges are fixed into the jaw using dental implants.
Those who are missing several teeth but still have some healthy natural teeth may be best served by implant-supported bridges. This way, the remaining healthy teeth may be preserved instead of extracted for denture placement.
Implant-Supported Dentures
Birmingham patients who are missing all of their upper teeth, all of their bottom teeth, or all of their upper and lower teeth may choose implant-supported dentures over traditional dentures.
Implant-supported dentures anchor within the mouth using three to five dental implants per arch. The dentures attach to the implants, providing a firm, secure fit within the mouth. Because implant-supported dentures are anchored in place, many patients find they look and feel more natural.
In addition, implant-supported dentures stay firmly in place, allowing denture wearers to enjoy more of their favorite foods without fear of their dentures moving or shifting.
Find Out Which Treatment Is Right for You
Treatment for tooth loss can help restore dental function and confidence. If you currently wear dentures or will need to soon, you may benefit from alternative treatments. To learn more about tooth loss treatment options or to find out which treatment is right for you, please schedule a consultation online or call our Birmingham practice at (205) 991-9892.
