Not everything was better back in the “good old days.” Take dentures, for instance. Dentures have been around for generations and have certainly improved the lives of thousands of Wetaskiwin people who have lost many or all of their teeth.
However, Grandpa’s conventional false teeth are not the optimal tooth replacement. Traditional dentures can impede many essential oral functions: chewing, tasting, swallowing, talking, and smiling.
You may know denture wearers who have stopped attending social activities because they are embarrassed by dentures that are far from inconspicuous. Some have even stopped eating their favourite foods because their dentures lessen their ability to taste and/or chew.
I have extraordinary news for Wetaskiwin residents with missing teeth: Dentures have evolved!
Implant-anchored or implant-supported dentures are far superior to conventional dentures for many patients. So much better, in fact, that there really should be another term for this breakthrough tooth-replacement system – a term that doesn’t include the word “denture.” (If you can think of a good name, let us know.)
There are two types of implant anchored dentures; removable and permanent. No adhesive is required for either system. With the permanent type, screw retentions are anchored in the jaw to serve as attachment points for the denture. Permanent implant-supported dentures are very stable. Furthermore, they are usually less costly than replacing each missing tooth with an implant. (The cost varies depending on the number of implants required and other factors.)
Screw retentions require enough bone thickness to allow the implant to securely mesh with the existing bone. Unfortunately, some patients who have been missing teeth for a long period of time have experienced bone recession. For patients who lack the required amount of bone, mini-implants may be an alternative.
Removable implant anchored dentures have a locator attachment which allows the wearer to snap the appliance in place. Some patients prefer this type because they can remove them at night for cleaning. Countless Wetaskiwin patients who have traded in their traditional dentures report that their implant anchored dentures have greatly improved their life.
The terrific benefits of implant-supported dentures include:
Increased comfort
Natural appearance
Normal tooth function
Improved stability
Better bone retention
Denture relines not required
Minimal gum irritation
No denture adhesive necessary
For more details about dental implants, call 780-352-5113 to schedule a consultation with Tim Mahoney. Wetaskiwin Family Dental is located at 5116 51 Ave in Wetaskiwin. Dentist in Wetaskiwin have been providing quality care and personal attention since 1983.