I have seen three dentists about getting complete dentures or new partial dentures over the past two months. I have five teeth left, and they are holding up two partial dentures. One dentist recommends removing the five teeth and getting implant dentures. The two other dentists gave me the option of keeping things the way they are and getting new partials or getting a removable denture or implant denture. They all said it was my choice. I have half the money I would need for implant dentures, but I would have to finance the rest because I do not want to drain my emergency savings. The five teeth left include my center front teeth. Is it worth saving them, or should I go with extractions and dentures? Thank you. Ted from Apex, NC
Ted,
Although Dr. Perry would need to examine your teeth and digital x-rays, we will offer guiding principles based on your description.
Should You Extract Your Remaining Teeth and Get Dentures?
Whether it is wise to save your teeth or extract them for dentures depends on several factors, including how many teeth you have left, their condition, and your overall oral health.
A Partial Dentures Stresses a Few Remaining Teeth
Tooth replacement options are not as effective as healthy natural teeth. Biting and chewing forces affect your remaining teeth even if they look healthy. But when only a few teeth remain, they are stressed when they must support partial dentures.
Advantages of a Full Upper Denture
If your remaining teeth are under stress, a complete upper denture will make chewing easier. A removable denture compromises your ability to chew well and digest food. Implant-supported dentures increase chewing efficiency.
Removing Your Remaining Teeth
When no natural teeth remain, your jawbone will rapidly shrink because you have no tooth roots stimulating the bone. Dental implants are artificial tooth roots that stimulate your jawbone and slow down shrinkage and premature facial sagging.
Implant-Supported Denture
After taking a 3-D CT scan of your mouth and jawbone, a dentist can determine if you are a candidate for implant dentures. They are a healthy alternative to further weakening your five remaining teeth. You can get as few as two implants for an affordable option, but more implants will increase denture stability.
Implant dentures will give you these advantages:
- Help your denture look natural
- Improve denture fit
- Maximize function when you eat and talk
- Function smoothly without clicking or shifting like removable dentures
Select an implant dentist with advanced training and experience for the best outcome.
Baton Rouge, Louisiana, family and implant dentist Dr. Ryan Perry sponsors this post.