If you’re a senior looking to replace missing teeth, you might be wondering whether conventional dentures, overdentures, or dental implants are right for you. Each option comes with unique benefits and considerations. At Nevada Dentistry & Braces in Las Vegas, NV, we help our patients understand these choices so they can make the best decision for their smiles and health.
What Are Partial Dentures?
Partial dentures are removable dental devices designed to replace one or several missing teeth. They’re crafted from a combination of acrylic and metal and customized to match your natural gums and teeth for a discreet look. Partials not only fill gaps but also help maintain the health of surrounding teeth and jaw structures by distributing bite forces evenly.
When Are Partial Dentures Best?
Partial dentures are an excellent choice if:
- You’re missing several—but not all—teeth in an arch.
- You’re looking for a budget-friendly solution.
- You want to avoid surgery.
- You may be considering implants in the future, but need a temporary solution in the meantime.
Drawbacks Of Partial Dentures
However, partial dentures do have some limitations:
- They can feel bulky in the mouth.
- They may shift or move slightly while eating or speaking.
- They typically require removal and cleaning overnight.
- They do not prevent bone loss beneath missing teeth as implants do.
Why Get Partial Dentures?
- Non-invasive and surgery-free.
- More affordable than implants.
- Help prevent the shifting of remaining teeth.
- Easy to fit, adjust, and modify.
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are titanium posts that function like artificial tooth roots. After being placed into the jawbone during a minor surgical procedure, they gradually fuse with the bone in a process called osseointegration. Once fully integrated, crowns, bridges, or even dentures can be attached to the implants, creating a secure and natural-looking replacement for missing teeth.
Signs You Might Need Dental Implants:
- Missing one or more teeth.
- Pain or sensitivity when eating hot or cold foods.
- Irritation from current dentures.
- Some bone loss in the jaw.
- A sunken facial appearance.
Why Get Dental Implants:
- Look and feel like natural teeth.
- Over 95% success rate.
- Long-lasting—often 20 years or more.
- Easy to maintain with brushing and flossing.
Overdentures Vs. Traditional Dentures
Traditional dentures consist of a full arch of artificial teeth set into an acrylic base that rests on your gums. They rely on suction or adhesives to stay in place and often cover the roof of your mouth, which can affect taste and speech.
Overdentures look similar but attach to dental implants surgically placed in the jawbone. These implants act as anchors, providing greater stability and comfort.
When Are Overdentures Best?
Overdentures may be the right choice if:
- You’re frustrated with traditional dentures slipping or shifting.
- You want improved chewing efficiency.
- You want a solution that helps preserve jawbone density.
- You prefer a palate-free upper denture for better taste and comfort.
Drawbacks Of Overdentures
Despite their advantages, overdentures are not for everyone:
- They require oral surgery to place implants.
- Healing and integration can take several months.
- The initial cost is significantly higher than traditional dentures.
Pros Of Snap-On Overdentures:
- More comfortable than traditional dentures
- Leave the palate uncovered, improving taste sensation
- Provide stable chewing and clearer speech
- Help prevent bone loss and jaw resorption
Cons Of Overdentures:
- Higher cost than traditional dentures
- Require oral surgery to place implants
- Healing and integration of implants can take several months
Dental Implants vs. Overdentures
Though overdentures use implants for support, they differ from full dental implant restorations. With full dental implants, titanium posts are placed into the jawbone and topped with crowns that look and function like natural teeth. Each tooth replacement is independent, offering the closest match to your natural smile.
When Are Dental Implants Best?
Dental implants may be the ideal solution if:
- You’re missing one or several teeth.
- You want the most natural look and feel possible.
- You’re healthy enough for oral surgery.
- You have enough jawbone to support implants, or are willing to undergo bone grafting.
Drawbacks Of Dental Implants
However, implants have a few important considerations:
- They require a longer timeline for treatment (several months).
- They’re more expensive upfront than dentures or overdentures.
- Patients with significant medical issues may not be good candidates for surgery.
- Some seniors may need bone grafting to prepare for implants, adding time and cost.
Why Get Dental Implants:
- Nearly as strong as natural teeth.
- Can last a lifetime with proper care.
- Allow you to eat a full range of foods.
- Do not affect speech.
- Help maintain facial structure and jawbone health.
Disadvantages Of Dental Implants:
- Significantly higher cost than dentures.
- Require sufficient jawbone health.
- Healing period of several months before the crowns are placed.
- Some patients may need bone grafting before implant placement.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Yes! Age alone isn’t a barrier to implants. Many healthy seniors successfully receive implants. However, medical conditions or bone loss may require additional treatment.
Traditional dentures can make chewing tough or sticky foods more challenging. Overdentures and implants provide better stability for eating a wider range of foods.
Dental implants can last 20 years or longer with proper care, sometimes even a lifetime. Good oral hygiene and regular dental visits are essential.
It may take time to get used to partials. Modern designs are much more comfortable than older versions, but some patients notice bulkiness at first.
Dental implants feel and function closest to natural teeth because they’re anchored into the jawbone like real tooth roots.
Yes, overdentures anchored to implants help stimulate the jawbone and reduce bone shrinkage, preserving your facial structure better than traditional dentures.
Explore Your Tooth Replacement Options
Our experienced team at Nevada Dentistry & Braces in Las Vegas, NV, is here to help you navigate your choices and achieve a healthy, confident smile. Whether you’re considering dentures, overdentures, or dental implants, schedule an exam and consultation to explore what’s right for you.
related post
Think That Missing Tooth Can Wait? Here’s Why Not
Losing a tooth might seem like a minor issue, especially if it doesn’t affect your …
