Which Restoration Works Best, Implant-Supported or Traditional Dentures?

As we age, we increase our likelihood of losing one or more teeth. By the age of retirement, it’s not unlikely that many individuals have lost several teeth, if not an entire arch. If you’re reading this post, you are probably looking into the best possible replacement and would like to learn more about dentures and dental implants. If so, Thomsen Dental Group might be the right place for you.

The Merits of Traditional Dentures

There are two typically types of dentures, and both options have their merits.

Traditional dentures supply patients with an easy and affordable way to replace missing teeth. Dentures have been around for centuries, meaning its technology has been improved upon over and over again throughout the years. A good set of dentures can appear just like natural teeth, so much so that onlookers would have trouble considering otherwise.

Dentures are also minimally invasive. Receiving this restoration requires no surgery. Patients with certain anxieties may prefer to stick with traditional dentures that only rest over gums.

Dental Implants, and Why They Reign Supreme

However, those willing to receive implant-supported dentures gain a wide range of benefits.

When teeth go missing, the jawbone loses its support from teeth roots and goes through a process of resorption. In short, the strength and size of the jawbone deteriorate. Dental implants directly address this issue. Moreover, the material used to create the dental implant post, titanium, blends with the bone through a process called osseointegration, which creates a unity between the restoration and the jaw. This process bolsters the strength of the jaw in addition to supplying support that prevents accelerated jawbone deterioration.

It’s important to note that dental implants also increase the stability and strength of the bite. Dental implants allow supported dentures to anchor themselves onto implants posts, which in turn are anchored to the bone. This provides improved comfort and greater stability when eating and speaking. Additionally, this allows patients with dental implants to enjoy all types of food with minimal diet restrictions.

Which Option Works Best?

In short, implant-supported dentures supply the most comprehensive replacement for missing teeth. Dental implants replace the entire tooth from root to crown, meaning these restorations address many dental issues related to missing teeth that traditional dentures alone cannot.

Learn More!

Find out more about the difference between dentures and dental implants by calling or visiting Thomsen Dental Group in Omaha, NE and scheduling a conference with Drs. Brett or Allen today!

The Advantages of Professional Teeth Whitening

Improving the look of your smile should not require extensive cosmetic treatments. For patients seeking an alternative to traditional cosmetic dentistry, professional teeth whitening systems present the ideal way for transforming dulled or yellowing teeth into beautiful, white smiles. If you are weighing your options for improving the look of your dentition, consider the following advantages of professional teeth whitening.

Consistent Results
While convenient and inexpensive, over-the-counter teeth whitening systems are designed to fit the general whitening needs of diverse patients. As a result, this treatment lacks the personalization required to provide patients with a customized whitening treatment plan tailored to the shape of their smile and ideal shade goals. Professional whitening, on the other hand, can be customized to best suit your needs.

Minimally Invasive
While effective, traditional cosmetic treatments such as crowns and veneers can be invasive, requiring that part of the tooth be removed in order to successfully place the treatments. For patients with healthy teeth who are simply looking to improve the shade of their smile, these conventional options can do more harm than good, compromising the overall health of their smile. As teeth bleaching gel is topically applied to the teeth, patients do not need to worry about any changes being made the physical structure of their dentition.

Natural Looking Teeth
Over-the-counter teeth whitening systems often come with a standard amount of bleach already preloaded onto generic trays. If worn too long or improperly, patients run the risk of over bleaching their smile. With professional teeth whitening, the bleaching gel is precisely applied to the teeth, ensuring the results natural looking results.

Less Sensitivity 
When using over-the-counter whitening systems, many patients often experience tooth sensitivity, making the experience of bleaching the smile uncomfortable. As there are no custom trays used to bleach the smile, some gel may get on the gums, increasing sensitivity. With professional teeth bleaching, custom trays are made to ensure the bleach only makes contact with the teeth. Additionally, some professional bleaching systems, such as Opalescence, are designed to include potassium fluoride. This compound helps strengthen tooth enamel while limiting dental sensitivity, leading to an overall more pleasant experience.

Flexible Treatment Options 
Traditional cosmetic treatments often require multiple visits to the dentist in order to completely transform the dentition. Professional teeth whitening systems are available as both in-office and take-home treatments, making it just as convenient as over-the-counter whitening systems.

In Omaha, Drs. Brett Thomsen and Allen Thomsen use Opalescence and Kör professional whitening systems to help patients achieve a beautiful, healthy looking smile. For more information about teeth whitening, contact Thomsen Dental Group today.