Dentures vs. All-On-4 New Bedford, Falmouth, & Hyannis, MA
Restorative Treatment Options provided by Dr. Gus Dehni
and Dr. Chris Webb
in New Bedford, Falmouth, & Hyannis, MA at Center for Advanced Periodontics and Implant Dentistry
According to the American College of Prosthodontics, it is estimated that about 178 million Americans are missing at least one tooth while 40 million Americans have no teeth at all.
Historically, dentures have been the solution for badly infected, damaged, or missing teeth. However, we now have more innovative methods to replace your teeth.
At Center for Advanced Periodontics and Implant Dentistry, Dr. Gus Dehni DMD recommends the use of All-On-4® Treatment Concept — an innovative form of implant-supported dentures.
What is All-On-4?
The All-On-4 Treatment Concept involves the use of four dental implants, each on your upper and lower arch. These implants are designed to support a full set of artificial teeth. This is breakthrough dental technology that uses longer, tilted implants on the back of the jaw to make use of denser bone and to offer more stability to your overdenture. Because of this, some people with low jawbone density may not require a bone grafting procedure.
Dentures vs. All-On-4
Dentures are an effective and non-invasive way to restore lost teeth. However, they have certain limitations and drawbacks when compared to All-On-4.
• |
Natural-looking: Dentures do mimic natural teeth; however, they often do not give a very realistic look since they slip and slide and move around in the mouth. All-On-4 overdentures are fitted into place by dental implants and appear just like real teeth.
|
• |
Comfort: Since dentures slip and slide around, they may chafe your cheeks and cause sores on your gums. In contrast, All-on-4 dentures are anchored to your jaw, do not shift out of position, and feel and function like real teeth.
|
• |
Function: Dentures are not strong or stable enough for you to eat all of your favorite types of food. Most people who have dentures can only eat soft food. However, with All-On-4, you can eat all types of crisp and tough food, including apples, nuts, and meat.
|
• |
Bone Density: When your teeth are lost, your jawbone will get absorbed by the body over time since it does not get the necessary stimulation. With dentures, the stimulation is not enough to prevent bone necrosis. However, All-On-4 can preserve your bone health by replacing the tooth root and providing the same stimulation through chewing and biting as natural teeth.
|
• |
Maintenance: Dentures need to be removed every night, cleaned carefully, and allowed to be soaked in cool water or a denture cleaning solution so that it does not warp its shape. On the other hand, no special care is required for All-on-4. In fact, you should brush and floss them just like your real teeth.
|
• |
Long-Lasting: You will need to reline, rebase, and even replace your dentures every few years since your jaw will change its shape, and they will become loose. In addition, dentures can warp or crack easily. All-on-4, however, are permanent and can last you for about 25 years, provided you practice good oral hygiene.
|
• |
Esthetics: Since dentures do not prevent jawbone resorption, in a few years, your facial structure will collapse, and you will start looking years older. In contrast, All-on-4 will not allow your bone to degrade, maintaining your youthful look. Success Rate: Dental implants have a success rate of between 88% and 98%. This makes them excellent options for permanent tooth restoration. |
Contact Us
If you are missing several or all of your teeth, All-On-4 may be a viable option for you. Call us at 508-204-3145 to schedule a consultation with us.
|