Dental Implants for Missing Teeth

Dental implants are increasing surpassing complete dentures as the treatment of choice for people who have lost their natural teeth.  They are more stable, with less irritation than dentures and can help preserve bone by bonding to the jaw bone.   Full dentures, which usually replace all of the teeth, cover the roof of mouth and the lower gums, resulting in a nearly 70 per cent decrease in the ability to taste.

As seniors continue to live longer, healthier and more active lives, they are less satisfied with traditional style dentures and are looking for options that allow them to eat freely without fear that dentures will fall out or become loose.

Artificial Teeth Options:

Dental Implants
An artificial root made of titanium.
Inserted into the jawbone to anchor an artificial tooth.

Bridge
A dental restoration that replaces one or more missing teeth spanning an area that has no teeth.
Dental implants hold the bridge in place.

Partial Denture
Artificial teeth held on by clasps that fit onto nearby natural teeth.
Can be removed at night for cleaning
Used when teeth are not strong enough to hold a bridge

Complete Denture
Full dentures (false teeth) used when all natural teeth are missing.
Removable
Held in place with suction.
Immediate dentures are made before teeth are removed and used during the healing period.
Conventional dentures are fitted after the gums and tissue have healed.

Over Dentures
A removable denture that fits over natural teeth left in the mouth.
Natural teeth are reshaped to fit the denture or small implants are placed into the jawbone.

Replacing missing teeth with artificial teeth is necessary to prevent remaining teeth from becoming misaligned.  Dental care is important for seniors not only for overall health but also to help maintain social connections.  Missing teeth may contribute to seniors becoming more reclusive and hesitant to go out in public.   Poor dental health is also linked to heart disease, stroke and pneumonia.

Dentures and implants need to be cleaned every day, just like natural teeth.  The mouth is constantly changing and it is important to visit the dentist if false teeth are causing discomfort, swelling or bleeding of the gums.  Be sure to maintain regular cleaning and dental exams and check dentures for cracks.

To learn more about dental implants and dentures, visit the Canadian Dental Association website at http://www.cda-adc.ca/en/oral_health/procedures/dental_implants/ .