Something I have been doing more of lately is using dental implants with fixed bridges instead of dentures. I like this option because it is more “stuck on” to the implants. With daily removal of a implant attached denture, there can always be some loosening of the connector parts and pieces. With a fixed denture, the denture is screwed into the implants and bonded on so there is no slipping or loosening.

Conventional Dentures may be removable or fixed. Removable dentures are taken out of the mouth at night for cleaning and disinfecting, then inserted and held in place using denture adhesives.  Fixed dentures are only removed by your dentist.  They are supported by a series of dental implants to which the denture is attached.

The convenience of not having to remove dentures for daily cleaning has led to the increased popularity of implant supported dentures.  However, implant-supported denture alternatives with acrylic gums and porcelain teeth are much harder to maintain over time.

Fixed replacement dentures require a higher level of daily attention because they are not removed and made from materials that attract plaque, stains, and odors.  Also, the older these dentures become, the more prone they are to chipping, breaking, and overall failure.

For patients seeking a truly permanent solution, there are no “better dentures” made from acrylic and porcelain.  The material is the problem.

Some Dental Implant Centers offer their patients a good, better, best option for dentures. Ultimately it comes down to the quality of the materials and craftmanship that can influence final look and wear. An inexpensive denture can be thin and be prone to easy breakage and wearing of teeth and smelliness. A higher quality denture will last longer over time. One such option is Zirconia.

Zirconia is both highly durable (to eliminate wear from biting, chewing and talking) and just flexible enough to be sculpted and shaped to your specific requirements. It is non-porous and has a high-density and produces a bridge with a smoother finish than those made from other materials. Your finished bridge resists stains and doesn’t absorb odors or attract plaque and bacteria.

We always like to get to know our patients and their lifestyle when selelcting the best option for dental implant restoration. I know that it is not cookie cutter what will work for each person. If you have a friend or loved one considering dental implants or a denture, please share this information with them.

There are many things to consider when investing into your dental health. What worked for Jimmy may not work for John. Let’s talk about options so you have a solution you are comfortable with. As always we offer a no cost Dental Implant consultation.

Take the first step toward changing your life – Enjoy eating the foods you love – Stop worrying about denture mishaps.

-Be Well!

Dr. Lieu