Choosing Between Implants and Implant Dentures: Criteria and Maintenance Methods.

Implants vs. Implant Dentures: Criteria for Selection and Maintenance

Implant therapy involves the placement of specialized metal screw-shaped structures into the jawbone to create pillars, onto which artificial teeth are newly fashioned, serving as replacements for missing teeth. This treatment method is considered when teeth are lost due to periodontal disease, decay, trauma, etc. Implants are fabricated in a structure similar to conventional dentures, allowing for natural tooth-like functionality. However, proper maintenance and regular check-ups are essential.

 

Both implants and implant dentures reside within the user's oral cavity, and their long-term use depends on the oral cavity's condition and proper maintenance.

 

When Multiple Teeth Are Missing and Bone Health Is Compromised: Consideration for Implant Dentures

In cases where multiple teeth are missing and the bone's health is compromised, making it difficult to establish multiple implants, implant dentures may be considered. Implant dentures involve the installation of only 2 to 4 implants, onto which a removable denture is attached for use.

 

This treatment method is broadly categorized into two types. First, implants are fashioned to resemble teeth and attached to a partial denture's ring, creating the denture. Second, implants are not shaped like teeth, but a retention device is attached, hiding the implants inside the denture. Various retention devices are used, such as snap buttons, magnets, bars, and clips.

 

Maintenance of Implants and Implant Dentures

Maintaining both implants and implant dentures is crucial. Even when using implant dentures, they should be removed from the mouth for cleaning. While brushing is recommended for cleaning implants or natural teeth, specific cleaning methods for dentures should be followed when cleaning dentures.

 

Sometimes, patients may be advised not to use toothpaste while cleaning dentures. However, this applies to users of partial dentures or implant dentures, not to those with natural teeth or implants. It's essential to adhere to the denture cleaning methods when using implant dentures.

 

During outings or special occasions, it's advisable to remove dentures and rinse them with water, even if using water alone, to clean the mouth and dentures. Proper maintenance of implants and implant dentures is crucial for preventing complications and ensuring long-term use.

 

Precautions and Complications of Implants

Unlike natural teeth, implants lack a cushioning effect and are more susceptible to external impact. Therefore, regular check-ups are crucial when using implants. Complications such as loosening or fracture of screws may occur, and detecting symptoms of these issues can be challenging initially. Hence, careful management through regular dental check-ups is necessary to prevent and treat problems.

 

Both implants and implant dentures reside within the user's oral cavity, and their long-term use depends on the oral cavity's condition and proper maintenance. However, considering the vulnerability of implants to external impact, meticulous care is essential. Proper maintenance and regular check-ups are necessary to maintain a healthy oral cavity.