Dental Implants vs. Dentures

Serving Phoenix, Mesa, Tempe and Scottsdale, Arizona

When you lose one tooth, you may receive a dental implant or a bridge to replace that tooth, but what if you have lost more than one tooth? Many individuals who have lost several or all their upper or lower teeth believe their only option is dentures or removable partial dentures. However, dentures may feel awkward in your mouth, make it difficult for you to speak, and even look like false teeth. You may feel that almost any option is better than dentures. If you are struggling with missing teeth, however, you should be aware that the option of dental implants may be available to you, even if you have lost all your upper or lower teeth.

Dental Implants and Fixed Partial Dentures

If you are missing more than one consecutive tooth, you may be offered a bridge attached to implants. This is sometimes called a fixed partial denture. The technology is almost exactly the same as for individual dental implants, with the exception that, instead of one false tooth affixed to a single implant, you will have two or more false teeth connected together and attached to two or more implant posts.

This type of dental restoration is called “fixed” because the bridge, or partial denture, cannot be removed. In fact, most dental implants have the same functionality and feel of your natural teeth. You can use them to chew and they do not interfere with your speech. Additionally, dental implants do not have to be removed to be cleaned, but can be brushed and flossed around just like your natural teeth.

Good Candidates for Dental Implants

While many people benefit from them, not every individual is a good candidate for dental implants. You must have sufficient healthy gum and jaw bone tissue to be able to support dental implants and you must be in good overall health.

If you do not have enough sufficiently healthy jaw bone tissue at this time, a bone graft may improve your oral health to a point that you would have a good likelihood of a successful implant procedure.  Mini implants can be used as another alternative. We welcome you to meet with one of our implant dentists to determine whether dental implants or another option will be right for you.

To schedule your appointment or learn more about dental implant options available in the Phoenix area, please contact implant dentist Dr. LeSueur and Dr. Dodaro today, also welcoming patients from Tempe, Scottsdale and Mesa, Arizona.