If you’re a senior looking to replace missing teeth, you might be wondering whether conventional dental implants or overdentures are right for you. There are advantages and disadvantages to each tooth replacement option.
At Nevada Dentistry & Braces in Las Vegas, NV, we have helped many of our senior patients understand the difference between regular dentures, overdentures, and implants to help them choose a dental solution that’s best for them.
Overdentures Vs. Traditional Dentures
Conventional dentures consist of artificial teeth mounted into a set of fake gums made of acrylic. The wearer uses adhesives or natural suction to hold them in place inside the mouth. Overdentures somewhat resemble conventional dentures in appearance, but instead of using adhesives or suction to keep them in place, you snap them onto titanium dental implants that are fused to the jawbone.
Regular dentures cover the roof of your mouth (palate), which can affect taste and speech; overdentures are more comfortable, but they are also significantly more expensive.
Pros Of Snap-On Overdentures
- They are more comfortable than traditional dentures
- They don’t cover your palate, allowing you to access the taste buds on the roof of your mouth.
- They allow more stable chewing than regular dentures.
- They enable clearer speech than traditional dentures.
- Snap-on overdentures help prevent bone loss and jaw bone resorption.
Cons Of Overdentures
- They are more expensive than traditional dentures.
- They require oral surgery to insert the titanium posts.
- It takes several months for the posts to fuse to the jawbone.
Dental Implants Vs. Overdentures
Although overdentures involve the insertion of titanium posts into your jawbone, they are not the same as true dental implants. With the latter, after the titanium posts are fused to the jawbone via the process of osseointegration, your dentist will insert abutments at the gum line and then attach crowns to the posts. The final result closely resembles real teeth.
Benefits Of Dental Implants
- They are nearly as strong as natural teeth.
- They can last a lifetime with brushing and flossing.
- You can eat what you want.
- Dental implants don’t affect speech.
Disadvantages Of Dental Implants
- They are much more expensive than traditional dentures.
- They require a healthy jawbone.
- You will need several months to heal post-surgery before the crowns can be attached.
- Some seniors have to undergo bone grafts before the implant process.
Dental Options For Seniors In Las Vegas
Our dental team at Nevada Dentistry & Braces in Las Vegas, NV, offers a range of tooth replacement options, including dentures, overdentures, and dental implants. To find out which option fits you best, call us today to schedule an exam and consultation. A healthy new smile awaits you.