The Ultimate Guide to St. Louis Dentures and Implants: Everything You Need to Know

Are you tired of hiding your smile because of missing teeth? Look no further! In the ultimate guide to St. Louis dentures and implants, we have everything you need to know to restore your confidence and regain a natural-looking smile. (Note: we recommend snap-in dentures, which function like your real teeth and don’t come in and out like traditional dentures.)

Whether you’re considering snap-in dentures or implants, this comprehensive guide will walk you through the process, answering all your questions along the way. From understanding the differences between dentures and implants to exploring the various types available, we have you covered.

Our team of dental experts in St. Louis is dedicated to providing you with accurate and up-to-date information, ensuring that you are well-informed when making decisions about your oral health. We understand that choosing the right tooth replacement option can be overwhelming, which is why our guide breaks down the benefits, costs, and potential risks of each option, allowing you to make an informed choice.

Say goodbye to hiding your smile and hello to a confident new you. At New Creation Dental Care, we love equipping you with information. Here is our ultimate guide to St. Louis dentures and implants.

Types of traditional dentures, and why we recommend snap-in dentures

Traditional dentures are removable appliances that replace missing teeth and the surrounding tissues. They are custom-made to fit your mouth and can be a great option for individuals with multiple missing teeth.

At New Creation Dental Care, we recommend snap-in dentures, which are permanent and act like your natural teeth. See below to learn about all kinds of dentures and why we recommend snap-in dentures.

Full Dentures: Full dentures, also known as complete dentures, are used when all the teeth in the upper or lower jaw are missing. They consist of a flesh-colored acrylic base that fits over the gums, and the replacement teeth are made from either porcelain or acrylic. Full dentures provide a natural-looking smile and restore the ability to eat and speak properly.

Partial Dentures: Partial dentures are used when only a few teeth are missing. They are made up of replacement teeth attached to a pink or gum-colored plastic base, which is connected to a metal framework. Partial dentures are removable and are held in place by clasps that attach to the remaining natural teeth.

Implant-Supported Dentures: Implant-supported dentures are a more stable alternative to traditional dentures. They are secured in place by dental implants that are surgically placed into the jawbone. The dentures then attach to the implants, providing a secure and comfortable fit. Implant-supported dentures offer improved chewing efficiency and prevent bone loss in the jaw.

Snap-In Dentures: Snap-in dentures are removable dentures that snap onto attachments placed on dental implants in the jawbone, providing better stability than traditional dentures. They allow for improved chewing ability and comfort, reducing the movement of dentures within the mouth and offering a more secure fit.

Initially, we’ll have a thorough discussion about how these snap-in dentures can improve your quality of life. The next step involves a minor surgical procedure to place dental implants into your jawbone—these act as secure anchors for the dentures. Following surgery, there’s a healing period that allows your body to naturally integrate with these implants. After healing, we take detailed impressions of your mouth to create dentures tailored just for you. The final step is adjusting these dentures for a perfect fit, ensuring your new smile is not only beautiful but also comfortable and functional. This process marks the beginning of a revitalized smile and renewed confidence.

Benefits of snap-in dentures and implants

Snap-in Dentures:

1. Permanently restores your smile and improves your appearance.
2. Enhances your ability to eat and speak properly.
3. Provides support to the facial muscles, preventing sagging and a sunken appearance.
4. Customizable to match your natural teeth.

Implants:

1. Offer a permanent solution for missing teeth.
2. Provide a more natural look and feel compared to dentures.
3. Prevent bone loss in the jaw, maintaining the overall structure of the face.
4. Improve speech and chewing efficiency.
5. Do not require support from adjacent teeth, preserving their integrity.

The process of getting snap-in dentures and implants

1. Consultation and treatment planning: Your dentist will assess your oral health, take X-rays, and create a customized treatment plan based on your needs.
2. Implant placement: Dental implants are surgically placed into the jawbone, acting as artificial tooth roots.
3. Healing process: It takes several months for the implants to fuse with the jawbone, a process called osseointegration.
4. Abutment placement: Once the implants have integrated, abutments are attached to the implants to support the replacement teeth.
5. Placement of replacement teeth: Finally, the replacement teeth, either dentures or crowns, are attached to the abutments, completing the process.

Common misconceptions about snap-in dentures and implants

1. Misconception: Dentures and implants are only for the elderly.

Reality: Tooth loss can occur at any age due to various reasons, and dentures and implants are suitable for individuals of all ages.

2. Misconception: Dentures and implants require a lot of maintenance.

Reality: Snap-in dentures and implants are like taking care of your natural teeth. You’ll follow the same regimen.

3. Misconception: Dentures and implants feel unnatural and uncomfortable.

Reality: With advancements in dental technology, dentures and implants are designed to look and feel natural, providing a comfortable and secure fit.

4. Misconception: Dentures and implants are prohibitively expensive.

Reality: While the cost of dentures and implants can vary, there are affordable options available, and many dental insurance plans offer coverage for these treatments.

Choosing the right dentist for dentures and implants

When it comes to choosing a dentist for your snap-in dentures or implants, it’s important to find a qualified and experienced professional. Consider the following factors:

1. Credentials and experience: Look for a dentist who has the necessary qualifications and experience in providing dentures and implants.
2. Patient reviews and testimonials: Read reviews and testimonials from previous patients to get an idea of their experiences and satisfaction with the dentist’s services.
3. Technology and techniques: Ensure that the dentist uses the latest dental technology and techniques to provide the best possible outcomes. Read the latest on New Creation Dental Care’s implant technology here.
4. Comfort and communication: Choose a dentist who makes you feel comfortable and communicates clearly about the treatment process, options, and costs.

Frequently asked questions about dentures and implants

1. Q: Are snap-in dentures and implants painful?

A: The placement of dentures and implants is typically done under local anesthesia, so discomfort during the procedure is minimal. After the procedure, any discomfort can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.

2. Q: How long do snap-in dentures and implants last?

A: A lifetime! (Traditional dentures only last 5–7 years.)

3. Q: Can I eat normally with snap-in dentures and implants?

A: Yes, both snap-in dentures and implants allow you to eat normally.

Conclusion: Improving your smile with snap-in dentures and implants

Don’t let missing teeth hold you back from smiling confidently. Take the first step toward a natural-looking smile and improved quality of life. Consult with a dental professional at New Creation Dental Care in St. Louis today and embark on your journey to regain your confidence with snap-in dentures or implants.