Alternatives to Dental Implants

What are some alternatives to dental implants?

August 31, 2022

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Alternatives to Dental Implants

So, you’ve decided dental implants aren’t for you? That’s ok, there are many reasons dental implants

might not be for you, some people feel they’re over their budget, others have health

conditions that may reduce healing ability and of course some may just want to opt for a

removable option. In this blog, we’ll cover some dental implant alternatives that could be a

great fit for you, if you are looking for Alternatives to Dental Implants.

Let’s look at our first dental implant alternative, a dental bridge. What is a dental bridge?

A dental bridge is usually an option for those who have a singular missing tooth. A

conventional bridge requires the preparation of the teeth on either side to support a tooth where the

missing tooth is. This is because typically 3 crowns joined will be fitted, with either side

supporting the new tooth. The issue with this is that it requires preparation of the teeth on

either side, however, there is a less destructive alternative of dental implant and that is an adhesive dental

bridge, these are supported with wings on both sides, rather than the joined dental crowns.

This can be a cheaper alternative and reduces the need to cut away at healthy teeth,

However, they do tend to debone. A bridge could be an excellent alternative to a

partial denture if you do have just a singular missing tooth. But we’ll get to dentures a

little later on. Whether you require a conventional or adhesive bridge will depend on a

few factors such as how strong your supporting teeth are.

Next up, dentures. These come in all sorts of shapes and sizes, you can have a

flexible denture, ‘flexible partials’ or even full dentures. There are many types and you can

even have permanent dentures also known as ‘snap in’ or ‘span on’ dentures in the form of

all on 4 dental implants, but here we’ll just be focusing on the removable type! The main

worry people have about dentures, is how will they stay in? Modern day dentures are a lot

more reliable than they used to be and their snug fit helps to keep them in place, however,

denture adhesive can also be used.

What are dentures?

Dentures are removable false teeth made of a type of plastic called

acrylic, they fit over the gums and existing teeth. You may need a full denture when the

majority of your mouth is missing teeth, or your dentist may advise you need a partial

denture for 3 or more consecutively missing teeth. So that’s the difference between a partial

and full denture, but what is a flexible denture? You may have heard of flexible dentures

such as valplast dentures. Flexible dentures are a type of partial denture that is more natural

looking and often gives a better fit. A different plastic is used to create these dentures

The typical valplast partial cost or any denture for that matter will cost anywhere from

£500 -£2000 per arch. The huge cost difference is based on whether they are flexible or

traditional, the material used and the dentist. You can also visit your NHS dentist to see

what can be done for you using the NHS service which reduces the cost drastically,

however, the range of products available will usually be limited.

Hygiene with a denture.

Hygiene is very important when you have a denture, especially if you have a partial denture,

plaque can build around the clasps (holding the denture to the teeth) or around the gum line.

We recommend cleaning the denture twice a day, soaking it overnight and avoiding wearing the

denture overnight. It is also suggested that hygiene appointments are just as important when

having a denture as this will allow a dentist to ensure your teeth and those below your gum line are

plaque-free.

How to clean your dentures?

Cleaning your dentures is pretty easy! It is recommended to use a soft-bristled brush and a

nonabrasive denture cleaner to remove any food or plaque from the denture. You will want to

clean the groove where you have put denture adhesive too, but never use denture cleaner

inside your mouth. Most dentures will lose their shape if not kept moist so you must leave your

dentures to soak overnight, for soaking you can use tap or distilled water.

You should also clean any remaining teeth in your mouth or your gums twice a day to

prevent bacteria and plaque build-up.

Are you looking to have dentures? The best thing you can do is visit a dentist and have a

consultation to see your needs. We recommend googling ‘ denture near me ’ to get

an idea of the dentists locally that offer dentures. Their website should help to indicate the

cost of their dentures, however, you can always ring and ask. Some dentists offer a

complimentary virtual consultation, and we always recommend opting for this as it can help

nervous patients feel more at ease, plus you don’t need to pay for an initial consultation to

have your questions answered. We hope we’ve answered your questions about the

alternative to dental implants. Replacing missing teeth can be scary, but just remember your dentist

is there to help you!
Here Are Some Relevant Pieces You Can Read About Alternatives to Dental Implants