Dental Implant Alternatives

Dental Implant Alternatives

In other cases, patients may simply want to avoid the lengthy dental implants procedure.

Fortunately, there are a number of dental implant alternatives that patients can turn to. These treatment options restore both the health and appearance of the smile. A qualified dentist can help you determine what course of treatment is right for you. In the meantime, learn more about some of the available tooth replacement options.

While dental implants are an appealing restorative dentistry treatment for patients who are missing teeth, they are not for everyone. Patients may be unable to receive dental implants for a variety of reasons, including if they do not have enough bone to support implants.

Full Dentures

Dentures are a removable restorative dentistry option for people who have lost nearly all of their natural teeth. Dentures are typically made of a strong plastic material, although some more expensive versions are made of porcelain. The artificial teeth are attached to a support piece to increase comfort in the mouth. Dentures can be removed by the patient to be cleaned, and may also be taken out before going to bed.

• Effectively replace all of the teeth and improve patient appearance
• Preserve facial structures
• Can improve speech over time
• Prevent infection and jaw misalignment

• Can cause sores or discomfort
• Are not permanently fixed in the mouth
• Enjoying certain foods can become difficult

Partial Dentures

For people who have lost several, but not all, of their natural teeth, removable partial dentures are a good dental implant alternative. These dental implant alternatives are composed of a plastic base to which the artificial teeth are attached, and metal clasps are affixed to the surrounding natural teeth.

• Safe way to replace missing teeth
• Prevent further tooth decay and gum infection
• Make talking and chewing more comfortable

• Are not permanently fixed in the mouth
• Can cause sores or discomfort