Dentures with or without Implants: Finding the Best Fit for Your Smile at Fort York Dentist
Dentures with or without Implants: Finding the Best Fit for Your Smile at Fort York Dentist
Missing teeth can affect much more than your appearance. Over time, they may impact your ability to chew and speak, reduce your self-confidence, and even affect your overall health. At Fort York Dentist, we offer several solutions to help you regain a full, healthy smile — including both traditional dentures and implant-supported options. Each of these treatments has distinct benefits, and our experienced team is here to guide you to the best choice for your unique needs and goals.
Understanding Dentures: Traditional vs. Implant-Supported Options
Traditional Dentures: A Trusted Solution for Decades
Traditional dentures are removable prosthetic devices that replace multiple missing teeth. They are crafted from high-quality, natural-looking materials that are designed to closely resemble real teeth and gums. Full dentures are ideal for patients missing all their teeth on either the upper or lower arch, while partial dentures can be customized to replace multiple missing teeth while preserving any healthy natural teeth you have.
Key Benefits of Traditional Dentures:
- Affordability: Traditional dentures are generally more affordable than implant-supported dentures, making them accessible to a wide range of patients.
- Non-invasive: Because traditional dentures don’t require surgery, they are a good choice for patients who may have underlying health conditions or prefer a non-surgical approach.
- Customizable and Convenient: Our dentures are custom-made to fit your mouth comfortably. They can be removed for easy cleaning, and their fit can be adjusted as needed over time.
While traditional dentures offer many benefits, they do have some limitations. Since they rest on the gums and rely on adhesives, they may shift during eating or speaking. Additionally, they do not support bone health in the same way that implant-supported dentures do, which can lead to bone resorption over time.
Implant-Supported Dentures: Added Stability and Enhanced Comfort
Implant-supported dentures are anchored to dental implants, which are small titanium posts surgically placed into the jawbone. Once the implants heal and fuse with the bone, they serve as a stable foundation for attaching dentures, giving you a secure and natural-feeling smile.
Advantages of Implant-Supported Dentures:
- Enhanced Stability: Unlike traditional dentures, implant-supported options are securely anchored, minimizing movement during eating or speaking.
- Improved Bone Health: Implants stimulate the jawbone, helping to prevent bone loss and preserving the natural shape of your face.
- Long-Lasting Solution: With proper care, implants and implant-supported dentures can last for many years, providing a durable and reliable solution.
- Natural Feel and Function: Implant-supported dentures feel more like natural teeth, allowing you to eat a wider variety of foods and smile with confidence.
While implant-supported dentures offer superior stability and bone health benefits, they do require a surgical procedure. This may be a consideration for patients with certain health conditions. However, for those seeking a long-term, highly stable solution, implant-supported dentures can be life-changing.
The Process: What to Expect for Traditional and Implant-Supported Dentures
Getting Started with Traditional Dentures
The process for traditional dentures generally requires a few visits to our office. During your first appointment, we will take impressions of your gums and any remaining teeth to create a custom fit. Once your dentures are ready, we’ll make any necessary adjustments to ensure they fit comfortably. Afterward, you’ll receive guidance on maintaining and caring for your dentures to ensure they remain in great condition.
Implant-Supported Dentures: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Consultation and Planning: We start with a consultation to assess your oral health, bone structure, and overall suitability for implants.
- Implant Placement: During a minor surgical procedure, implants are placed into the jawbone. They need time to fuse with the bone, a process called osseointegration, which typically takes several months.
- Fitting the Dentures: Once the implants are fully integrated, your custom dentures are attached to the implants. Adjustments are made to ensure a comfortable, secure fit.
Though the process for implant-supported dentures takes more time, many patients find that the added stability and comfort are well worth it.
Making Dentures Affordable: CDCP and Payment Plans at Fort York Dentist
We believe that everyone deserves access to quality dental care, which is why Fort York Dentist is proud to accept the Canada Dental Care Plan (CDCP). This program helps make essential dental services accessible to more Canadians by covering a range of procedures, including dentures.
In addition to CDCP, we offer flexible payment plans designed to fit your budget. Our team understands that dental work can be a significant investment, and we’re committed to working with you to make it manageable. Whether you choose traditional or implant-supported dentures, our goal is to make your treatment as seamless and affordable as possible.
Which Denture Option is Right for You?
Every smile is unique, and what works best for one patient may not be ideal for another. Here at Fort York Dentist, we take the time to thoroughly assess your oral health, lifestyle, and budget to recommend the best treatment plan for you. If you prefer a non-surgical solution and want to keep your costs low, traditional dentures may be a great fit. But if you’re looking for added stability, improved bone health, and a natural feel, implant-supported dentures are an excellent option.
Take the Next Step Toward a Confident Smile
Don’t let missing teeth hold you back from enjoying life to the fullest. At Fort York Dentist, we’re committed to helping you regain a beautiful, functional smile with a denture solution that meets your needs and fits your budget. Schedule a consultation today to learn more about traditional dentures and implant-supported options, and to find out how we can help you achieve the confident, healthy smile you deserve.