Archive for September, 2008
Avoid Embarrassing Slips With Implant-Supported Dentures
Anyone with regular dentures knows that eating a steak or biting into an apple is always risky because the dentures in the jaw may slip and slide as they lose their attachment to the gums. The solution to this is getting the denture attached to implants in the jaw. Implant-supported dentures lock the denture in place, providing people peace of mind that their dentures will not slip when eating or speaking in public.
An implant-supported denture is a type of denture that is supported by and attached to implants, whereas a regular denture rests on the gums and tends to fit less firmly in the mouth. The implants are placed into the jaw and bond to the jawbone forming an anchor. When a person has enough bone in the jaw to support implants, an implant-supported denture is ideal. This sort of denture has special attachments that snap onto the implants, allowing the denture to feel stable and secure.
Patients say the implant-supported dentures make their life more pleasurable, allowing them to even eat caramel at a party without having to worry about the dentures sticking together.
To find out more about implant-supported dentures, be sure to talk to a dentist who has advanced training in the placement and restoration of implants.
Tooth Loss Can Create Digestive Disorders
Tooth loss is the result of an advanced state of periodontal disease, in which the gums become so infected they cannot hold the teeth any longer.
When teeth fall out, it is more difficult to eat, and people without teeth–even those who wear dentures–are the most vulnerable to digestive and other related problems.
Research indicates that changes in food preferences and subsequent nutrient deficiencies are associated with tooth loss. Even those with dentures do not always obtain the necessary nutrients. One study of denture-wearers found that their chewing efficiency was about one-sixth that of a person with natural teeth.
Poor chewing has been associated with a decrease in vitamin A and fiber intake and an increase in cholesterol, saturated fat and calories, ingredients that increase the risks of cancer and heart disease. This study concluded that most of the patients with dentures showed a low chewing performance classification. They also took more medication for gastrointestinal disorders than those with a higher chewing performance.
One way to prevent this escalation of problems is to have your teeth cleaned regularly. Periodontal therapy will eliminate any infections in the gums, which will help you keep your teeth for life. This, in turn, will help you eat better, look better, feel better, and live longer.
