Have you experienced tooth loss? If so, there’s never been a better time to book a consultation with our dental implant dentist in Shelby Township, MI. Dr. Nazarian offers both dental implants and dentures, and would be more than happy to help you explore your tooth replacement options.
Here’s what you need to know about denture appliances and why dental implants are often considered the better choice for tooth replacement.
Dentures
Dentures are an oral appliance made to look and function like natural teeth. Depending on the extent of tooth loss, our dentist may recommend a full or partial denture. While a full denture replaces an entire arch of teeth, a partial denture only replaces a few teeth.
We can help you explore the different types of dentures available. These include partial, complete, conventional, and immediate dentures.
Dentures sit on top of your gums. As such, you must remove your dentures before you go to sleep so your gums have a chance to recover.
When you’re not wearing your dentures, submerge them in a glass of water or denture cleaner. This will prevent them from drying out, cracking, and warping.
Dental Implants
A dental implant is a prosthetic tooth root that’s placed in your jaw to later support a crown. This implant is usually made out of a titanium alloy that’s biocompatible.
Many patients appreciate that dental implants look and function like natural teeth. They’re also more stable than dentures that may slip when you cough or sneeze. Likewise, dental implants will stay in place while you talk, smile, and eat your favorite foods.
Taking care of your dental implants is simple. We recommend that you continue to practice good oral hygiene at home. This means brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing once daily. You should also continue to see our dental implant dentist in Shelby Township, MI, for routine preventive care.
Should I Get Dentures or Dental Implants?
It’s true that dentures are more affordable than dental implants. That being said, they don’t solve the problem of jawbone deterioration.
As soon as your body detects a missing tooth, it’ll start to absorb the minerals in your jaw to use elsewhere. Once this happens, the area of the jaw where the tooth root used to be weakens and deteriorates. Teeth next to the gap will also start to tilt toward the open space.
At some point, the patient may experience facial collapse. This alters the shape of the face and makes it difficult to wear dentures.
Learn More: What Happens If You Don’t Replace Missing Teeth? →
In general, we recommend the dental implant procedure whenever possible. That way, patients can avoid long-term health issues caused by missing teeth.
Dental implants exert pressure on the jawbone, which tricks your body into thinking it’s a natural tooth root. This stops jawbone deterioration in its tracks so you can enjoy better oral health.
Am I a Candidate for the Dental Implant Procedure?
For successful osseointegration, there has to be enough bone density in the jaw to support the implants. But you may be able to get around this if you’re eligible for a bone graft or mini dental implants. Candidates will also need healthy gums and a strong immune system.
If you smoke, you may not be a candidate for dental implants. This is because smoking inhibits your body’s natural healing ability after oral surgery.
Dr. Nazarian will be able to determine if you’re a likely candidate for the dental implant procedure. Even if you’re not a candidate, we can help you explore your other tooth replacement options.
Book a Dental Implant Consultation
Dr. Ara Nazarian is proud to serve as your local dental implant dentist in Shelby Township, MI. To schedule an appointment and learn if you’re a candidate for dental implant treatment, please call the Premier Dental Center at (248) 457-0500. You may also fill out our online contact form and someone from our team will reach out to you soon.
This blog post has been updated.