Dentures in Atkins, AR
Tooth loss reshapes more than your appearance—it affects how you eat and speak and even the long-term health of your jawbone. Over time, missing teeth can lead to difficulties with chewing, changes in speech, and bone loss that alters your facial structure.
At Atkins Dental Clinic, we understand how these challenges can impact your daily life. We offer custom-fitted dentures to restore function, comfort, and confidence. With the right fit, dentures provide the support needed for clearer speech, easier eating, and a natural-looking smile. If tooth loss is making everyday life more difficult, we’re here to help you find a solution that feels right for you.
When Are Dentures Needed?
Dentures become necessary when individuals experience tooth loss, often due to decay, injury, advanced gum disease, or other oral health issues. This dental restoration is recommended to replace missing teeth, allowing individuals to regain oral function, restore their smiles, and prevent potential complications associated with tooth loss. Whether it’s a partial denture for a few missing teeth or full dentures for an entire arch, these prosthetic devices help individuals regain their quality of life.
If you notice signs of tooth damage that suggest tooth loss is imminent, you may need dentures. Symptoms include bleeding, swollen, or tender gums; loose or shifting teeth; and severe toothache that doesn’t go away. Having already lost a permanent tooth may also suggest future problems.
Exploring Your Denture Options: Which Type Is Right for You?
Dentures have been used for many years. Advancements in dental materials and technology have expanded the range of options available for replacing missing teeth. Nowadays, there are several denture options to choose from.
Traditional and Partial
Snap-On Overdentures
Snap-on overdentures are a type of removable implant denture. These are similar to full dentures in their outward appearance since the false teeth are made from the same materials. However, the snap-on variety offers much more security. That’s because the appliance attaches to dental implants. At our practice, we use mini dental implants thanks to their many benefits for patients.
Dr. Bratton places 4 to 6 mini implants into the jawbone to secure a lower arch and 6 to 8 mini implants for an upper arch. These implant-retained prosthetics share some features with traditional options but provide a better fit.
Semi-Removable and Permanent Implant Dentures
Mini implants allow us to offer semi-removable and non-removable implant denture options. These models use a zirconia roundhouse bridge atop the implants. A roundhouse bridge is a horseshoe-shaped row of teeth that eliminates the need for bulky acrylic gums. Zirconia teeth are also much stronger than acrylic or porcelain. This fracture-resistant material withstands normal wear and tear at much higher rates and more impressively mimics the appearance of natural teeth than other dental materials.
The semi-removable bridge connects to six to 10 mini implants, and only Dr. Bratton removes them during your routine cleanings. In contrast, the non-removable bridge is cemented onto 10 to 12 mini implants, offering a remarkably secure and permanent denture option.
Traditional vs. Implant Dentures
Stability
Traditional dentures rely on a combination of factors to stay in your mouth. Even the best-fitting ones can become loose over time—sometimes referred to as “floating dentures”—relying on suction, muscle control, and often denture adhesives to stay in place. Implant options, on the other hand, offer enhanced stability. By securely attaching to mini implants, they eliminate slippage and the discomfort caused by loose dentures.
Comfort
Traditional options can feel bulky because of the false acrylic gums. While the gums help the false teeth stay in place, they also cover the upper palate, making it difficult to taste and enjoy foods and drinks. Snap-on dentures use much less gum material, while the zirconia roundhouse bridges don’t need to use any.
Additionally, traditional dentures can cause sore spots and discomfort because they are prone to slipping. Implant options are more comfortable, thanks to the reduced movement and irritation.
Longevity
Full dentures typically last five to 10 years, while partials may last a bit longer. However, as the jawbone changes over time, dentures become loose and require adjustments for a better fit. Mini dental implants can significantly extend the lifespan of dentures by providing a stable foundation that prevents shifting. With proper care, implant dentures can last 20 years or more, offering a longer-lasting solution.
Long-Term Oral Health Benefits
When you lose a tooth (even just one), your jawbone begins to recede. Normally, chewing, biting, and speaking stimulate osteoblasts, the cells responsible for bone growth. When a tooth is lost, this stimulation stops, and osteoclasts, which break down bone tissue, begin to resorb the bone in that area. This process happens quickly, leading to noticeable bone loss within months. Traditional dentures rest on the gums but don’t prevent this deterioration, causing them to become loose over time. Dental implants, however, act as artificial tooth roots, stimulating the jawbone to keep it strong and healthy.
Cost
Traditional options generally have lower upfront costs. However, mini implant dentures can be more cost-effective, offering long-term savings due to their durability and reduced maintenance.
Restore Your Smile With Dentures at Atkins Dental Clinic
Living with missing teeth or uncomfortable dentures doesn’t have to be your reality. At Atkins Dental Clinic, we’re here to help you regain confidence, comfort, and function with a denture solution that fits your needs. Whether you’re considering traditional dentures or the enhanced stability of mini implant-supported options, Dr. Bratton and our team are ready to guide you toward the best choice for your smile. Schedule a free implant consultation today and regain the comfort and security you deserve!
Frequently Asked Questions
The cost of dentures depends on several factors, including the type you select and whether additional procedures are needed, such as gum disease treatment or extractions. Also, certain materials carry higher costs, but they come with the advantage of lasting much longer.
At Atkins Dental Clinic, we value high-quality and affordable solutions. Our dedicated staff will determine what your insurance policy covers and file your claim to ensure you get the most out of your benefits.
We also partner with dental financing companies to offer monthly payment plans. These plans allow you to choose a lending term based on your needs, eliminating the need to postpone treatment.
If you’re already wearing dentures but struggling with discomfort or slipping, you may wonder if implants can improve your experience. In certain cases, we can convert your existing denture into an implant option, especially if it’s still in good condition. This can be a great way to enhance stability without starting from scratch. However, wearing traditional dentures for years can lead to bone loss. As a result, this may affect how well implants can support your appliance.
At your consultation, Dr. Bratton will evaluate both your jawbone health. Additionally, he will assess the condition of your current denture to determine if stabilization with implants is the right option for you. Our goal is to help you achieve a secure, comfortable fit so you can eat, speak, and smile with confidence again!
Speaking clearly with traditional dentures can be challenging as you acclimate to the appliance in your mouth and contend with changes in fit over time.
Achieving clear speech with dentures involves regular practice and a few helpful techniques:
- Begin by reading aloud or engaging in conversations with those you feel comfortable with. Start with a slow and deliberate pace, gradually increasing speed as you gain confidence.
- Chew and swallow before speaking to ensure proper denture placement, and focus on articulating words clearly.
- Stay hydrated, as a well-lubricated mouth facilitates smoother speech.
Implant dentures offer enhanced stability and support, making it significantly easier to speak clearly and confidently compared to traditional dentures. The secure attachment to mini dental implants minimizes the potential for slippage or discomfort while talking.