Permanent dentures perform the same function as removable dentures but are permanently fixed in place. They are better than removable dentures in terms of stability, retention and aesthetics. They are also easier to wear and eat with. There are several types of permanent dentures that are made available such as dental bridges, dental crowns and dental implants. All of these are made from durable material and with proper care they can last for many years to give you a perfect smile.
Dental Bridges
Permanent dental bridges replace missing teeth and are attached permanently to existing neighboring teeth. The existing neighboring teeth have to be prepared by the dentist and made smaller in size so that all the teeth are aligned once the bridge rests on them. The cost of a dental bridge can vary from $1,000 and $1,800 depending on the number of teeth that have to be incorporated in the bridge.
Dental Crowns
A cap is permanently fixed on a tooth that’s broken or partially removed due to damage. A crown might also be required if the natural crown of the tooth is weak and can’t withstand the force required for mastication. The cost of a crown for one tooth can range from $800 to $3,200 depending on the materials used, the preparation, and the number of visits to the dentist that are required.
Dental Implants
A dental implant is fixed to the jaw bone. Implants are generally made of titanium as titanium is biocompatible with human bone tissue. The implants are generally screw shaped and are then covered with a ceramic cover to resemble a tooth. Surgery is required to place the titanium rods within the jawbone or on top of the jawbone, beneath the gum tissue. Others are shaped like a metal pin and pass through the jawbone and gum tissue. The gums are then allowed to heal and at a later stage, the dentures are cemented into the posts of the rods that are left exposed above the gum tissue.
The dentist will take a bite cast to obtain exact measurements of your teeth, jaws and mouth. It might also be necessary to remove a few teeth. Multiple visits to the dentist are required to confirm the shape, color and fit of the denture and to ensure that it’s firmly secured in place. The cost of dental implants is prohibitive and can cost as much as $3,500 per tooth, per implant and per screw.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Dental Implants
The advantage of dental implants is that it’s a long term solution. Removable dentures are difficult to retain in your mouth especially as your mouth alters in shape with age. Dental implants can last a lifetime. They provide replacements for natural teeth as they look natural and are comfortable to chew with. However, they are costly and you can get discomfort, pain, swelling and bruising from the surgical process of planting the titanium rods. The tooth part of the implant needs to be changed every decade and this adds to the total cost.
Permanent dentures or dental implants look and feel better than removable dentures.
