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Direct Denture – Pros and Cons of Implant Dentures

If you are currently wearing removable dentures that are fitted poorly and are unstable in your mouth, then you may be considering permanent dentures. Permanent dentures are a durable and lasting treatment option for those that have one or more missing teeth.

They can quickly and easily restore the function of your teeth and keep you smiling from ear to ear for years to come!

Removable dentures are one of the quickest and most cost-effective methods to replace missing teeth, however, if they are not fitted correctly, they can move over time and cause extreme discomfort, and even stop patients from eating and speaking as they normally would.

Wearing dentures for prolonged periods of time are also not advised as wearing them consistently for extended periods of time can lead to the shrinkage of the jaw bone.

Many patients who use removable dentures also have to deal with messy and sticky adhesive to secure their dentures to their mouth, which is not the most ideal or stable way to fasten the dentures into place.

Fixed Dentures:

Through advanced technology, dental patients are given the opportunity to resolve the issue of one or more missing teeth through Permanent Dentures. Non-removable dentures, or more commonly known as Fixed Dentures, are one or more prosthetic teeth that have been bonded to a foundation, that is placed in the mouth and is held in the mouth through the use dental implants.

Fixed Dentures | Direct Denture

These implant dentures make is easy for patients to drink, eat, chew, talk and smile as they would normally, as the dentures will not move around while performing these daily activities.

For this type of procedure to take place, the patient must first receive an oral examination by an expert dentist who has the right knowledge to fit these permanent dentures. Then, a scan of the jawbone will be issued to help determine the exact locations for the implants to be embedded at the back of the jawbone.

The fixed dentures are then attached to the implants and after a healing period in which the implants naturally fuse to the jawbone, and the patient can enjoy their new set of teeth.

Although there is no perfect technique that will replace missing teeth, permanent and implant dentures is one of the most popular and effective options that patients can receive. However, as with all dental procedures, there are some advantages and disadvantages to taking into consideration:

Advantages:

There are so many benefits to permanent dentures compared to conventional dentures. The first, and most attractive, is that it requires the shortest surgery and healing times. There are also minimal healing times and postoperative discomfort that patients experience.

When compared to removable dentures, patients who have fixed dentures are able to eat, speak and drink much more comfortably and the dentures allow for a more even biting force distribution, easing these everyday processes.

Fixed dentures are extremely long lasting – when properly cared for, they can last a lifetime – and as they are custom made for each patient, they also support the natural structure of facial features, allowing for patients to achieve a more natural and youthful appearance.

Considerations:

Although permanent dentures provide an easy and safe solution to replacing missing teeth, it does involve surgery, which can sometimes lead to infection and inflammation during the healing process. It is important to note, however, that with the proper cleaning and maintenance, most patients do not experience any inflammation and infection is extremely rare.

Even though the upfront costs for fixed dentures can be quite costly, the benefits, improved mobility of everyday activities and costs saved in the long run can heavily outweigh this factor.

If you are considering fixed dentures to replace your missing teeth, then it is within your best interest to seek the help of a professional and skilled cosmetic dentist to ensure you are receiving the best care and the most informed decision.

Direct Denture Care is licensed dental prosthetists and qualified dental technicians specialise in new Cosmetic Denture, custom mouthguard and emergency Denture repairs. Call and book an appointment to start the process achieving a beautiful new smile, today!

Balcatta WA: Phone: (08) 9440 1540
Hillarys WA: Phone: (08) 9401 1195

What You Need to Know About Dental Implants

Are you thinking about getting a dental implant? Before you take the plunge, here are some things you should know about dental implants, the dental implant procedure, and some dental implant costs.

What Are Dental Implants?

Dental implant surgery is a procedure in which the roots of your teeth are replaced with screw like fixtures made of titanium metal. The artificial tooth, or crown, usually made of porcelain, are then screwed onto the titanium fixtures. This procedure could be for a single tooth or multiple teeth, depending on the requirements of the patient. Dental implants are the next best alternative to having your own teeth.

 

One of the main benefits of denture implants is that they look just like natural teeth. On top of this, as they are designed to be long-lasting, they function better and are certainly more stable than conventional dentures. Dental implants are designed to fuse with your jawbone. The main benefit of this is that it stimulates the jawbone, making it stronger and healthier. This can also actually prevent your face from sagging which is often the case when you have had multiple teeth removed and the jawbone is weakened.

 

Some of the other benefits of dental implants that it does not affect your speech, so you are able to talk normally. The best thing of all is that you can go back to eating your favourite foods! You no longer have to pick and choose the types of food you eat due to the fact you have teeth missing, or that you are wearing dentures. You are able to chew your food better without any discomfort. What’s more, you cannot get cavities with denture implants. Of course, you still need to brush, floss and maintain your teeth and gums, and visit the dentist as scheduled, but you can go to town on chocolate and sweets if you so choose!

Dental Implant Procedure

dental implants

Dental implant surgery may involve several different procedures, depending on the condition of the jawbone and the type of implants being installed. Typically you need to wait until your jawbone has reached its full growth potential. Therefore this procedure is not recommended for children.

 

Just like any type of surgery, dental implant surgery does present some health risks. These health risks are rare however, it is possible that they can occur. If they do occur, they are usually minor and the treatment is normally pretty straightforward. Some of these risks include damage to surrounding bone structure, nerve damage, infection, and possibly even sinus problems, particularly when implants are placed in the upper jaw.

 

The procedure itself is performed in several stages and can actually take several months to complete depending on the amount of work required. Like any surgery, there is preparation involved. This includes a comprehensive dental examination in which x-rays are taken, and then models are made of your teeth, jaw, and mouth.

 

To control the pain of the procedure there are various forms of anesthetics used. It is important to determine the best option for you, and what the repercussions of the chosen method are. You can discuss this with your dentist or dental surgeon prior to the procedure.

 

Dental implant surgery is typically outpatient surgery and as mentioned earlier, is performed in several stages:

•  Firstly, if a damaged tooth is being replaced, this needs to be removed.

•  From there, your jawbone is prepared for the procedure. This may actually involve bone grafting depending on the condition of the jawbone and how fit it is for the surgery.

•  Once your jawbone is ready, the surgeon then screws the titanium fixtures into your jawbone.

•  Then it is a waiting game as you wait for your jawbone to heal from the surgery. This process can take several months depending on the condition of your jaw, and how many titanium screws are inserted.

•  Once the healing process is complete, the dental surgeon will then place an abutment onto the titanium fixtures. An abutment is basically just an extension of the titanium fixture.

•  Finally, once all the soft tissue, has healed your dentist will then make a mould of your teeth and jaw bone, and then attach the tooth onto the abutment. Then voila! The process is complete and you have a million dollar smile once again.

•  After the procedure, you will experience some side effects. This includes swelling of the gums and face, bruising of your gums and skin, minor bleeding, and pain in the immediate area where the implant has been installed. You will normally be prescribed medication to assist with pain management.

Dental Implant Cost

Of course, dental implants are more expensive than conventional dentures, such as having a root canal done (which is the process of saving a tooth). At the time of publication, the cost for one single dental implant can range from $4,500, up to $7,000, depending on the complexity of the procedure. This is usually not covered by health insurance as it is considered a cosmetic procedure. Therefore, cost is obviously an important consideration. If you do decide to have dental implants, it is important to make sure that your dentist, or dental surgeon, is properly accredited to perform the procedure.

 
 

How are dentures repaired?

new denturesWhat are dentures?

Dentures are a removable prosthetic device for missing teeth. This can also cover the surrounding tissues and gums. There are two types of dentures; there are complete dentures and partial dentures. Complete dentures are used when there are no teeth remaining and therefore, act as a replacement for all of your teeth. These dentures rest on the gums of the jawbone. Partial dentures are used when only some teeth are missing. These are attached to nearby remaining teeth and rest on the gums and the bone where the missing teeth would be.

Dentures can be a very cost-effective method with regard to the replacement of missing teeth. Although they are very durable, they are not as strong as ordinary teeth or even denture implants. If you bite on something hard like an almond nut or candy or drop them on a hard surface, this can cause damage to them. Regular wear and tear can also cause damage to dentures, and even have an impact on their alignment. If these problems are not properly resolved, this can cause irritation to your gums and could lead to the development of complications, including sores and infections. Therefore, if any problems do occur with your dentures, it is recommended to repair them. How do you go about this?

Denture repair kits

If the repairs are not carried out properly, this might end up causing more harm than good. Firstly, an incorrect repair job on a denture may cause damage to your gums, tongue or cheek lining which can lead to other complications. Secondly, you need to consider that you may cause further damage to the denture by trying to repair it yourself. The cost of restoring the denture due to a bungled repair job could end up being more costly than having it repaired in the first place. Worse still, you may need to replace the denture completely if the bungled repair job is a complete failure.

Denture repair done properly

As you can see, there are a number of pitfalls in trying to repair damaged dentures by yourself. If your dentures have become too uncomfortable to wear, or they are damaged, then it is highly recommended to consult with your dental prosthetist or a dental laboratory technician. Denture repairs can be a relatively quick process and shouldn’t be too expensive. This, of course, depends on the nature of the problem.

Usually, the dental prosthetist will first examine the dentures to determine the nature of the problem. He will then work out how the dentures should be adjusted or repaired. If dentures are newly fitted, then adjustments will need to be made until the fit is perfect. This is to ensure that your bite is normal because when your natural teeth are missing, your jawbone can shrink. This is why dentures need to be adjusted on a fairly regular basis. So if it is a simple realignment that is required, this is a relatively quick process. However, if there are missing pieces, such as a tooth, that need to be replaced, the dental prosthetist or laboratory technician may require the original shape to cast the mould. This can be done on the same day.

So if you find dental implants too expensive, then the use of conventional dentures is a cost effective solution. Although dentures are prone to damage, and they require realignment from time to time, they are still a very viable alternative to dental implants.


Why are mouthguards important?

mouth guards

A mouthguard is worn over your upper teeth and gums and helps to cushion any serious blows to the mouth, lower face or jaw. Without them, you run the risk of fracturing, chipping or possibly even knocking a tooth out or worse still, root or jaw bone damage. Mouthguards are flexible,  and usually, a custom fitted device that is typically worn while playing contact sports.

Aside from damage to our teeth, mouthguards are also useful in reducing and preventing damage to your lips, tongue and cheek lining as a result of a bump or a knock. Mouthguards can also prevent the upper and lower jaw from snapping shut due to a collision. This can safeguard against broken jaws, neck injuries and even concussion. They can also help to protect people who are orthodontics, as these may cause extra damage to the inside of the mouth and lips.

Mouthguards are not mandatory and therefore not all athletes wear them. This is usually just a personal preference. There can be a number of reasons for this which can include comfort, inability to speak clearly and more often than not, image. However, other factors for non-use may include care and maintenance and sometimes simply forgetting to pack it with your sports gear.

Types of mouthguards:

Custom made

You can have mouthguards that are custom made by your dental prosthetist.  These are the most effective, as they are individually fitted to suit your own teeth and gums. These are generally made from acrylic materials containing a hard outer surface, with a softer inner surface. Custom-made mouthguards are usually the more expensive option.

Boil and bite

These types of mouth protectors can be purchased in most sports stores. They are made from a thermoplastic material. The procedure for fitting is to boil them in water to soften them, and then place them inside your mouth. Once inside your mouth, you bite into them while shaping them around your teeth using your finger and tongue.  The material sets and stays in place once it has cooled. These are relatively inexpensive compared to custom-made mouthguards.

Stock

Like the boil and bite mouthguards, these can also be purchased in most sports stores. They are pre-formed and are usually made of polyvinyl or rubber. Stock mouthguards are ready to wear and therefore, cannot be customised. The problem with these is that they often don’t fit properly which makes them uncomfortable to wear. This means they are not as effective compared to the previous two options. Most people prefer to wear oversized stock mouthguards and as a result, need to bite on them to keep them in place. This can make it very difficult to breathe properly. These are the cheapest option of the three options discussed here.

Care and maintenance

It is important to look after your mouthguard to prevent the spread of oral diseases and to also ensure that you get maximum performance from your mouthguard. For best results you may want to consider the following:

  • • As part of regular dental hygiene, it is best advised to brush your teeth before wearing your mouthguard.
  • • Before storing your mouthguard, you should soak it in warm, soapy water, but make sure you rinse it thoroughly. It is important to let it dry before storage. This will prevent bacteria forming.
  • • Do not chew on your mouthguard is this can weaken the material and impact its effectiveness.
  • • As mouthguards are generally made from plastic, be sure it is not exposed to excessive heat as this can distort the shape of it.
  • • Do you not share your mouthguard with anyone else as this may alter the shape of it and may also contribute to the spreading of oral diseases. Conversely, you should not wear anyone else’s mouthguard.
  • • Most mouthguards come with a case. It is important to store your mouthguard in its case to protect it from any physical damage. If it does not come with a case, you might be able to find one at a sports store or pharmacy.
  • • Do not make any alterations to your mouth guard as this may the limit it’s full protective capability.
  • • Regular inspection is also important to ensure that your mouthguard is free from any irregularities or wear and tear.Mouthguards will naturally wear out and change shape over time. How long a  mouthguard lasts for will depend on the materials it is made from, and how often you use it. You cannot expect it to last forever.  It is best to change the mouthguard every 12 months.

What are the benefits of dentures?

Dentures are a removable prosthetic device for missing teeth. This can also cover the surrounding tissues and gums. There are two types of dentures; there are complete dentures and partial dentures. Complete dentures are used when there are no teeth remaining and therefore, act as a replacement for all of your teeth. These dentures rest on the gums of the jawbone. Partial dentures are used when only some teeth are missing. These are attached to nearby remaining teeth and rest on the gums and the bone where the missing teeth would be. Continue reading What are the benefits of dentures?