For decades, dentures have been the standard solution for individuals with missing or damaged teeth. However, traditional dentures often come with a host of challenges that can affect a person's quality of life. Many denture wearers experience discomfort, difficulty chewing, and feel self-conscious about their appearance. Fortunately, modern dentistry has introduced several denture alternatives that offer improved functionality, aesthetics, and overall oral health.
In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore several alternatives to dentures, including dental implants, bridges, and innovative hybrid solutions. We'll discuss the pros and cons of each option, helping you make an informed decision about the best tooth replacement method for your needs.
Before delving in, it's essential to understand why many people seek alternatives. Dentures are often removable prosthetic devices that replace missing teeth and surrounding tissues. While they can be an effective solution for some, they often come with several drawbacks:
1. Uncomfortable to wear and cause irritation
2. Difficulty chewing certain foods
3. Slippage during eating and speaking
4. Need for adhesives to hold dentures in place
5. Regular maintenance and cleaning
6. Potential for further bone loss and tooth loss with adjacent teeth
These limitations, especially the fact they can cause your bone and teeth to deteriorate further often lead people to explore other options that offer more stability, comfort, and a more natural feel.
The best option to replace normal dentures and missing teeth is a surgical process called Full Mouth Dental Implants. This innovative approach, which is also referred to as All-on-4, All-on-6 or Implant Supported Dentures, has become increasingly popular over the last decade. As technology continues to advance, this surgery is becoming more accessible and more affordable to those who want and need it.
At New Life Teeth, we've been providing this for over 12 years and are one of the leading clinics in the UK and Ireland. Unlike traditional dentures, full-mouth dental implants function as a permanent and unremovable option, however, they feel real and won't negatively affect you when speaking or eating. This does require surgery however it has a very high success rate.
It is our go-to solution that we suggest to our patients as it can help you whether you're missing a few teeth, missing several teeth or a full mouth of teeth.
They work by using a small number of strategically placed implants (typically four to six) to support a full arch of prosthetic zirconia teeth. The implants are surgically placed in the jawbone, and a custom-made prosthetic arch is then attached to these implants. Benefits include:
Look and feel more like natural teeth
Improved appearance
Permanent and should last your lifetime
Eat and drink without the fear of your teeth falling out
Bio-compatible and non toxic
They will support your facial structure
The technique, pioneered by implant manufacturer Nobel Biocare, has revolutionized full-arch tooth replacement. This method uses just four to 6 implants to support an entire arch of teeth, making it a cost-effective alternative to traditional implants for those needing full-mouth restoration. The process involves:
1. Extraction of any remaining damaged teeth
2. Placement of four to six dental implants
3. Fitting of a temporary prosthesis on the same day
4. Healing period of 8-12 weeks
5. Fitting of the final Zirconia Teeth Forever® bridge
This technique allows patients to leave the clinic with a full set of functional teeth in just one day, making it an attractive option for those seeking a quick alternative to dentures. However, you may not require a completely new set of teeth as you may only need 1 or a few teeth replacing.
Not everyone is an ideal candidate for Full Mouth Dental Implants. Factors that influence candidacy include:
1. Sufficient bone levels in the jaw
2. Good oral health and hygiene
3. Free of periodontal disease
4. Non-smoker status (or willingness to quit)
5. Good general health
However if you don't fit into this category we at New Life Teeth can still help you, we're an expert team who have focused on dental implants for over 12 years, and we can help the most complex of cases, even when other clinics can't. Speak to our team and we can arrange a free appointment.
An amazing option if you're only looking to replace a few teeth. They are made up of several parts and perfectly mimic real tooth structure and roots; they still feel like genuine teeth, but how do they work?
The implant: A titanium post surgically inserted into the jawbone
The abutment: A connector placed on top of the implant
The crown: A custom-made artificial tooth attached to the abutment
The implant fuses with the jawbone through a process called osseointegration, creating and stable base for the replacement tooth. This process typically takes several months but results in a durable, long-lasting solution. We have much more in-depth articles that go into detail on how they work if you are interested.
Stability: Implants are firmly anchored in the jaw using titanium fixtures, eliminating the risk of slippage.
Improved chewing ability: Patients can eat a wider variety of foods with confidence.
Natural appearance: Implant-supported teeth look and feel more like natural teeth.
Preservation of jawbone: Implants stimulate the jawbone, preventing bone loss that often occurs with dentures.
Long-lasting: With proper care, dental implants can last a lifetime.
Improved speech: Unlike dentures, implants don't interfere with speech patterns.
For those who may not be able to afford dental implants and still want to help when their teeth are missing, dental bridges can be a suitable choice. A dental bridge is a fixed prosthetic device that literally "bridges" the gap created by one or more missing teeth.
Types of Dental Bridges
Traditional Bridges: Anchored on either side of the gap
Cantilever Bridges: Used when there are healthy teeth on only one side of the gap
Maryland Bonded Bridges: Use a metal or porcelain framework bonded to existing teeth
Implant-Supported Bridges: Anchored to dental implants instead of natural teeth
What are the benefits?
Fixed in place: Unlike removable dentures, bridges are permanently attached.
Natural appearance: Bridges can be matched to your existing teeth
Improved chewing and speaking: More stable than removable dentures
Preservation of facial structure: Prevents shifting of remaining teeth
Quicker process: Typically completed in two to three appointments
While what we have outlined so far are the most common choices, other options can help you when your teeth are missing or damaged.
Partial Dentures
For those missing only a few teeth remaining, partial dentures can be a cost-effective alternative to full dentures. These removable devices clip onto existing teeth and can be taken out for cleaning.
Overdentures
Overdentures are a type of removable denture that fits over a small number of remaining natural teeth or implants. They offer improved stability compared to traditional dentures while still being removable for cleaning.
Mini Tooth Implants
Mini implants are smaller in diameter than traditional implants and can be used to support dentures or replace small teeth. They're often a good option for patients with insufficient bone density for full-sized implants.
Selecting the best option for replacing missing teeth depends on various factors:
1. Number of missing teeth
2. Condition of remaining teeth and gums
3. Jawbone density
4. Overall oral health
5. Budget and insurance coverage
6. Personal preferences and lifestyle
It's crucial to consult with a qualified dentist or prosthodontist to determine the most suitable alternative to dentures for your specific situation. They can assess your oral health, discuss your goals, and recommend the best option for your needs.
The cost can vary significantly:
1. Dental Implants: Generally the most expensive option initially, but the most cost-effective in the long run due to their longevity.
2. Dental Bridges: Usually less expensive than implants but more costly than traditional dentures.
3. Full Mouth Implants: Costs can vary, but often less expensive than replacing each tooth with an individual implant.
At New Life Teeth our pricing for Full Mouth Implants it is:
- Single Jaw: £12,000
- Both Jaws: £16,500
- Complex Single Jaw: £18,000
- Complex Both Jaws: £24,500
While these alternatives may have higher upfront costs than traditional dentures, many patients find the improved quality of life and potential long-term savings worth the investment.
Proper maintenance is crucial for the longevity of any tooth replacement option:
Dental Implants: Require regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups, much like natural teeth.
Dental Bridges: Need careful cleaning around and under the bridge to prevent decay in supporting teeth.
Full Mouth Implants: These may be fixed or removable; fixed versions are cleaned like natural teeth, while removable ones require similar care to traditional dentures.
Regular dental appointments are essential for all options to ensure the health of your remaining natural teeth and to monitor the condition of your prosthetic teeth.
While traditional dentures have long been the standard solution for missing teeth, modern dentistry offers several alternatives that can provide improved comfort, functionality, and aesthetics. From dental implants that look and feel like natural teeth to innovative full mouth options that combine the best of both worlds, there are options to suit various needs and preferences.
When considering your options, it's essential to weigh the pros and cons of each, consider your personal needs and lifestyle, and consult with a dental professional. With the right choice, you can achieve a smile that not only looks great but also allows you to eat, speak, and live with confidence.
Remember, your oral health plays a crucial role in your overall well-being. By exploring and working closely with your dentist, you can find a solution that not only replaces missing teeth but also contributes to your long-term health and quality of life.