Is Saving My Last Few Teeth Worth It?

I have three healthy teeth left. After scheduling consultations with three dentists, they all say I would be more satisfied with a complete upper denture than a partial denture. Although the dentists are leaving the decision up to me, I am unsure what to do. I’m not much of a social person, so I don’t have huge concerns about wearing a complete denture, but I want to do my best health. – Thank you. Nghi from TN

Nghi.

Dr. Imam would need to complete an examination and look at your x-rays for an accurate diagnosis. But we will give you some facts to consider.

Is It Best to Save Your Natural Teeth?

It is best to save your natural teeth when saving them will not negatively affect your oral health. Replacing natural teeth with an appliance has disadvantages. But keeping the teeth can be unhealthy when you have very few left. When you bite and chew, your natural teeth absorb the stress. With only three teeth left. The stress distribution is uneven, and our teeth will eventually weaken.

Complete or Partial Denture?

A complete upper denture will be more comfortable for you than a partial denture when most of your teeth are missing. The suction will help keep your denture in place.

Although your body resorbs your jawbone when your teeth are missing, resorption is worse on your lower haw. Still, in time your jawbone will shrink.

The best treatment to minimize the impact on your oral health is a complete upper denture. But asking a dentist to secure the upper denture with implants will preserve your jawbone and keep your denture in place. You can get as few as two implants—more if your budget allows it. And you can get two more implants over time.

If you have an issue with your lower teeth and need a denture, implants are beneficial because lower dentures don’t have the suction to keep them in place. They rest on your gums and easily lift.

Choose a dentist with advanced training in implants and cosmetic dentistry. You will get quality results and natural-looking dentures.

 

San Antonio cosmetic dentist Mohamed Imam sponsors this post.