Should I get multiple implants or dentures?

Implant treatment involves implanting a special metal screw-shaped artificial structure, equivalent to the root of a natural tooth, into the jawbone to create a post, upon which a new artificial tooth is placed. This procedure can be considered for people who have lost teeth due to various reasons, including periodontal disease, cavities, or trauma. Because they are made with a similar structure to natural teeth, they can be used like natural teeth without the discomfort or reduced chewing ability of traditional dentures. However, they are more susceptible to inflammation and impact than natural teeth and periodontal tissue, so thorough oral hygiene is necessary for long-term use.

If you have many missing teeth and your bone health is too poor to accommodate adequate implants, implant dentures may be considered. Implant dentures are a treatment method that involves placing two to four implants and attaching dentures to them.

There are two main types of implant denture treatment. First, implants are shaped like teeth and a partial denture hook is attached to the implants to create the denture. Second, the implants are not shaped like teeth and are attached to a retainer, which is then inserted into the denture. In this second method, the implants are hidden within the denture, out of sight. Retainers used vary, from snap-button types to magnets, double-tube devices, and clips.

Unlike natural teeth, implants lack the cushioning effect, which can lead to complications like screw loosening, fracture, and bone loss over time. Professor Ahn Soo-jin of the Department of Prosthodontics at Kangdong Kyung Hee University Hospital explained, "Implants are integrally bonded to the alveolar bone, while natural teeth are connected by the periodontal ligament. Therefore, implants lack the cushioning effect when subjected to external impact. Therefore, if subjected to the same load as natural teeth, implants can experience more complications."

 

If you have many missing teeth and weak bones, consider implant dentures.

 

Implant screw loosening, a frequent occurrence, occurs after prolonged use of the prosthesis. This occurs when the bonding material becomes damaged or the screws loosen, causing the prosthesis to loosen. In this case, seek medical attention as soon as possible.

One of the challenges with implants is that it's difficult for patients to recognize complications early on. Unaware that a screw has loosened, they continue eating until it falls out completely, and then seek medical attention. In more severe cases, patients only seek dental care when bone loss around the implant has progressed significantly and the implant is no longer functional. The best way to prevent this is through regular checkups to ensure the prosthesis and surrounding soft tissue are in good condition.

 

Both implants and implant dentures require maintenance and care. Just like traditional dentures, implant dentures should be removed and cleaned, and the remaining teeth and implants should be brushed separately with a toothbrush dipped in regular toothpaste. Professor Ahn advises, "Some patients neglect to brush their natural teeth or implants, claiming they were told not to brush their dentures with toothpaste. Users of partial or implant dentures should familiarize themselves with and practice appropriate cleaning methods for dentures and appropriate care for their remaining natural teeth or implants. If going out or other circumstances prevent this, it is recommended to remove the dentures and rinse the mouth and dentures with water."

 

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There is also a pubic bone graft,

In my father's case, he uses partial dentures,

In my mother's case, her oral structure was too small, so she needed dentures.

I was also recommended,

 

You don't necessarily need to get an implant.

 

However, if you have dentures, you have to take good care of them.