How All-On-X Dental Implants Compare to Dentures
Many patients who find themselves with missing teeth either because of age, decay, or repeated tooth extraction, often think traditional dentures are the only option. Sure, dentures offer both restored functionality and appearance but they aren’t for everyone. For that reason, our Jackson, MI, dentists also provide All-on-X dental implants.
Here’s what you need to know about this type of restoration and how it stacks up against dentures.
What Are All-On-X Dental Implants?
In short, All-on-X dental implants are a hybrid approach to tooth replacement. They combine implants with permanent false teeth for added stability and ease of wear. Depending on your specific needs, we can replace a full upper or lower arch using 4, 5, or 6 implants.
Learn More → What to Consider Before Pursuing Dental Implants
One of our dentists will surgically embed the titanium posts into your jaw and once the areas have time to fully heal, we will move forward with securing the teeth on top. For the most natural-looking and comfortable end result, each arch of teeth is custom-made to fit your mouth.
Unlike Conventional Dentures, All-On-X Implants:
1) Are Non-Removable
You can not take out the false teeth that are situated on top of the dental implants. While some iterations of implant-supported dentures or “snap-on” dentures allow you to do this, the All-on-X implants that we provide lock the teeth into place.
Many patients see this as a benefit as it means there’s no risk of the new teeth loosening or shifting as you speak and eat. There’s also less friction on gum tissue compared to regular dentures which sit directly on the gums with no other support.
In terms of oral care, you don’t need to remove the teeth to clean them or let them soak in a denture cleanser at night. They’ll instead stay hydrated and safe in your mouth.
2) Provide Natural Jawbone Stimulation
The oral surgery aspect of the procedure may sound intimidating, but it’s actually quite beneficial to you in the long run.Why? Well, in short, your jawbone requires stimulation to remain healthy.
Normally, it receives what it needs from the roots of your teeth but when they are no longer there, your body recognizes this and begins to absorb minerals in the jaw to be used elsewhere. Over time, this can lead to loss of bone and a more sunken appearance.
The placed All-on-X dental implants by our dentists act as artificial tooth roots and give your jaw the stimulation it requires while you enjoy a restored smile. It’s a win-win!
3) Allow for Dietary Freedom
Both dentures and All-on-X implants help you regain your ability to eat food. Where they differ, however, is the types of foods you can eat with them. For example, with dental implants it’s easier to consume chewy, sticky, or hard foods like caramel, steak, and certain breads.
Related Post → New to Dentures? Get Used to Them With These 4 Tips
After the dental implant procedure, our dentists will ask that you choose softer foods to allow for proper healing. Once your jaw has healed and the bone has fused to the implant itself, we’ll place the replacement teeth on top so you can eat whatever you want. No need for any adhesives whatsoever while you enjoy a meal.
Make an Appointment
Don’t feel like dentures are the right option for you? No problem. Our dental implant dentists in Jackson, MI, can introduce you to the All-on-X alternative. If you’re interested in learning more about the procedure itself, give The Dental Experience a call today at (517) 787-5367 to request an appointment.
This blog post has been updated.