Tooth loss is incredibly common in the United States. As many as 120 million American adults are missing at least one tooth, and 36 million are missing all of their natural teeth. Even a single missing tooth can have a negative effect on your oral and general health in a number of ways.
The good news is that there have never been more options available to help you get your smile back and improve your oral health. At Arden Dental Group, our dentists offer a number of cosmetic and general dentistry services at our office in the greater Asheville, North Carolina, area.
Dental implants and dentures are both effective options to replace missing teeth. Each one has pros and cons depending on factors like how many teeth you’re missing, your lifestyle, and your underlying general and oral health.
Dentures have been around in some form as far back as people have practiced the art and science of dentistry. The legend of George Washington’s famous wooden dentures aside (which appears to be an urban legend), dentures have come a long way over the last few decades and are a good option for people of all ages.
There are several different types of dentures available depending on your needs and preferences, and modern models are designed to provide a more natural look and much better fit than ever.
If you need a temporary solution, emergency dentures can bridge the gap while you wait for your gums to heal or for permanent restorations to be designed.
Some dentures can also be attached to implants for the most secure fit.
While they’re typically associated with older people, dentures work for people of all ages and backgrounds.
Dental implants have the advantage of being the only dental restoration that replaces the root as well as the crown of a missing tooth, so they also prevent bone loss, a common side effect of tooth loss and risk factor for developing gum disease.
In the first stage, we surgically place the implant in the tooth socket, where it slowly fuses with the surrounding bone tissue through a process called osseointegration. Once the implant has healed, we attach the cosmetic crown an abutment.
Implants look, feel, and function just like your natural teeth, so they’re the next best thing to your real teeth.
You can choose dental implants to replace a single tooth, or to secure a full or partial dentures if you’re missing a few or all of your natural teeth.
Unlike dentures, dental implants may not work for everyone. They’re available for adults who are in good general health and have enough bone tissue to support an implant.
Following a comprehensive dental exam and medical history, we recommend the best dental restoration and treatments for you based on your circumstances.
For more information about how dental implants and dentures work and to find the right restoration for you, contact us today to schedule an appointment at our office in the greater Asheville, North Carolina, area.