Dental Implants v Traditional Restorations
Patients suffering from tooth loss would do best to replace their missing teeth as soon as possible. There is a plethora of options to do so, that can be divided into two main categories: dental implant-supported and traditional restorations. It’s important to consider your options carefully and go over the pros and cons with your dentist before committing to a restoration.
When choosing a tooth replacement, consider the following factors:
The Effect on Your Oral Structure
Implant-supported restorations have little to no effect on surrounding teeth, as they are held in place by the jaw itself. Dental implants are placed into the alveolar jaw bone, where they integrate with the bone material to create a sturdy base for your prosthetic. Fixed bridges, crowns, and implant-supported dentures all capitalize on this ability to preserve natural teeth.
Bridges, a traditional restoration, rely on the neighboring teeth for support. With traditional bridges, the teeth surrounding the gap in your smile need to be shaped for the placement of crowns which hold the replacement tooth. In this way, bridges provide you a functional bite and an aesthetic restoration. Partial dentures utilize metal frames for support, which can wear on the teeth and soft tissues from continual touching.
Healing Time before Initial Restoration
While the initial placement of dental implants can sometimes occur on the same day as the extraction of a decayed or damaged tooth, the top prosthetic cannot be placed until the implant is fully healed and fused to the jaw. For patients with optimal gum health and jawbone density, the process from initial consultation to final restoration usually requires 4-6 months, though this can be lengthened if you also need periodontal treatment and bone grafting prior to the placement of your implant.
Traditional restorations do not require the same amount of preparatory treatment before they can be placed. Provided the teeth that will be supporting fixed dental bridges or partial dentures do not require root canal therapy or other treatment, patients can expect to wait a few weeks to a month depending on the time it takes to fabricate your restoration.
Long-Term Effects on Your Smile
With proper care, implants are able to last a lifetime. The prosthetics used to balance your bite and complete your smile are subject to the wear of regular use, but can be replaced using the same implant as support. Implants also provide the structural stability necessary to prevent jawbone resorption, protecting your facial structure, and your ability to comfortably chew and speak.
Traditional restorations prevent short term changes in facial sagging, but do not have the ability to stop bone loss. By applying pressure to the tops of the gums instead of stimulating bone, patients with traditional prosthetics are more likely to experience jawbone health problems over the years, and a sunken facial appearance.
To find out which restoration is right for you, contact the office of Dr. Anthony Riforgiate. At our Santa Maria dental practice, we provide implant-supported and traditional restorations for patients in need.