Restorative Dentistry

Implants vs. Dentures: Which Do I Need?

Smiling Couple Dental ImplantsModern restorative dentistry has produced a number of potential solutions for patients missing most or all of their teeth. The right treatment for you will depend on several factors, such as the amount of teeth you are missing, the location of the missing teeth, your jawbone density and more. Below, our experienced team at The Paddington Dental Surgery compares a traditional option, removable dentures, with the more advanced dental implants.

Traditional dentures, often referred to simply as “dentures,” are removable prosthetic devices designed to replace missing teeth (as well as some of the surrounding gum tissue). They’re custom-crafted to sit comfortably atop the gums and match the patient’s natural teeth. Dentures can replace full arches of teeth (complete dentures) or only some of the teeth (partial dentures), and are typically kept in place with a dental adhesive. When properly cared for, dentures can make everyday activities – such as chewing and speaking – much easier for patients with missing teeth.

On the other hand, dental implants consist of a titanium root that is embedded into the jawbone and topped with an artificial tooth. Like traditional dentures, implants are created to emulate natural teeth in structure and appearance. They can replace a single tooth at a time, or be incorporated into a custom set of implant-supported dentures. This type of prosthetic typically provides a sturdy, comfortable fit – and unlike their removable counterparts, implant-supported dentures do not slip or move within the mouth, nor do they require any messy adhesives. Additionally, whereas removable dentures require daily cleaning and significant maintenance, caring for dental implants is usually as simple as practising good oral hygiene (i.e. brushing, flossing and attending regular exams).

Whilst traditional dentures are still used by dental professionals around the world, dental implants – as well as implant-supported dentures – have essentially usurped them as the most popular option for tooth replacement. With this in mind, patients may be better suited for removable dentures in certain cases, namely if they have insufficient jawbone density to qualify for implants.*

The best way to determine the right treatment for you is to meet with one of our compassionate dentists. We will perform a thorough examination of your oral health and provide expert guidance to help you make a decision. To schedule a first-time consultation, we welcome you to contact The Paddington Dental Surgery.

Medical References*

Healthline

Sydney Dentists Discuss Replacement Options For Missing Teeth

Sydney dentists compare implants, bridges and other tooth replacement options.

The Paddington Dental Surgery’s dental team discusses the most popular and effective options for missing teeth, from bridges to implant dentures and more.

Sydney, AU – As top Sydney dentists, the team at The Paddington Dental Surgery is aware of the harm a missing tooth can pose to a patient’s oral health. In their professional experience,
teeth can go missing for a multitude of reasons, not limited to decay, gum disease, accident and injury. Even a single missing tooth, they continue, can do more than disrupt the aesthetic of the smile; missing teeth can also render everyday activities such as eating, chewing and speaking much more difficult. In addition, missing teeth can cause the jawbone and gums to recede, the surrounding teeth to shift position and the face to take on a “sunken” appearance.

The Sydney dentists offer a number of potential solutions for missing teeth. Firstly, the team notes that it is important to preserve broken or damaged teeth, as doing so can reduce the risk of the tooth falling out. This can often be achieved with a dental crown, which – according to The Paddington Dental Surgery – is one of the most versatile examples of restorative dentistry. Crowns are placed atop a vulnerable tooth to protect it from additional damage and restore its function. In many cases, the dentists state, bridges can also be effective in taking the place of a weak or missing tooth. These restorations consist of an artificial tooth and at least two dental crowns, which can fill the space left by a missing tooth.

Alternatively, if a tooth is missing completely, the dentists say that dental implants are typically the first treatment they recommend. Considered the gold standard for tooth replacement in the modern dental world, implants are available in several varieties, from traditional single-tooth implants to implant dentures to the innovative All-on-4™ system, the dentists explain. They inform their patients that implants consist of a titanium root, which is surgically embedded into the jawbone, as well as an artificial tooth that replaces the visible portion. They continue to say that All-on-4™ implants are especially popular due to their ability to replace full rows of teeth while often creating a comfortable fit, free of the slippage associated with traditional dentures.

On a final note, the dentists of The Paddington Dental Surgery remind patients that the best way to determine which tooth replacement option is ideal for their needs is to consult an experienced restorative dentist. A quality dentist will evaluate the patient’s oral health thoroughly before determining the safest and most effective course of action.

About The Paddington Dental Surgery
Led by Dr Duncan Copp, the six dentists of The Paddington Dental Surgery all share a common goal: to deliver exceptional results in a way that benefits both the patient and the entire planet. A member of the Eco-Dentistry Association (EDA), the practice combines holistic methods and environmentally-friendly technology to regularly perform to the most ethical standard of organic dentistry. Patients who visit The Paddington Dental Surgery can find the full breadth of oral health care treatments, from implantology to cosmetic to restorative dentistry. The dentists are available for interview upon request.

For more information about The Paddington Dental Surgery, please visit thepaddingtondentalsurgery.com.au and facebook.com/profile.php?id=100054356658133.

Contact:

The Paddington Dental Surgery
263 Glenmore Road
Paddington NSW 2021
Sydney, Australia
(02) 9331-2555

Rosemont Media
(800) 491-8623
www.rosemontmedia.com

How Many Implants Will I Need For My Implant Denture?

Implant-supported dentures have restored the smiles, as well as the self-confidence, of countless patients around the world. They are designed to replace multiple teeth at once, often feeling and looking so natural that it is difficult to tell the difference. 

Widely considered a more desirable option than removable dentures, implant-supported dentures combine the general form of dentures with sturdy titanium dental implants. As dental implants are known to produce excellent, long-lasting results, implant-supported dentures have proven effective for many in turn. While these anchored dentures are secured by four to six implants, the precise number of implants you need will depend on a few factors. 

Implant-supported dentures generally come in three different types: 

  • Full-mouth reconstruction, in which a combination of two or more procedures are needed to restore oral function and improve smile appearance. A full-mouth reconstruction may incorporate implant-supported dentures when multiple teeth are missing or irreparably damaged. 
  • All-on-4™, in which four implants are used as “anchors” to secure each denture in a sturdy position. All-on-4 can effectively replace both the upper and lower teeth layers of your mouth.
  • All-on-6, in which six implants are used as anchors. All-on-6™ is often used when the jawbone is not strong enough to only be supported by four implants and needs the extra security of two additional implants. 

Your dentist will help you decide the appropriate number of implants based on the location of the teeth you need replaced (upper or lower), the particular condition of your mouth or jaw, the strength of your bones, and more. Before the procedure, your dentist will thoroughly inspect your mouth and plan the specifics of your surgery to ensure a safe and successful implant placement. This consultation will also provide an opportunity for your dentist to determine the number of implants you will need for your new denture.

Our team at The Paddington Dental Surgery strives to provide a safe, compassionate, encouraging environment in our Sydney office. We always welcome questions and concerns and will do our best to address both so you are well-informed. Schedule your consultation to discuss implant-supported dentures today.

Am I a Candidate for Implant Dentures?

Considered to be the gold standard replacement for missing teeth, dental implants are a popular choice for many people who want to restore their smiles after tooth loss. Even better, there are a multitude of implant options for patients to best suit their individual needs and goals. Implant-supported dentures can help individuals who want to move away from traditional removable dentures but may not want or may not be candidates for a full set of dental implants. We can determine if implant dentures are right for you during a thorough evaluation at your initial consultation. Some of the factors that we will look for during this examination are:

  • Sufficient jawbone density
  • Good overall health
  • No disqualifying medical conditions

Patients who are not candidates for a full set of dental implants may still be qualified for this procedure, as fewer implants are needed to achieve the desired outcome. If your implant dentures aren’t quite right, we can recommend an alternative approach that still offers an excellent result. Your care and comfort are our top priorities, and we will work with you to find a solution to your concerns.

Ready to learn more about implant dentures? Talk to us today to see if this treatment is right for you.

What Is a Smile Facelift?

We use a number of different terms to refer to our customised procedures, including Smile Makeover, full mouth reconstruction, and Smile Facelift. Each treatment is designed to achieve a specific set of goals, and the right one for you will vary based on your unique characteristics and desired outcome. During your initial consultation, our team can help you determine if one of these procedures is right for you.

A Smile Facelift is a treatment that can rejuvenate a patient’s appearance without the need for cosmetic injectables. In addition to enhancing the look of the smile, a Smile Facelift can also revitalize the face by addressing underlying issues within the oral structures. The primary technique used in a Smile Facelift is the placement of porcelain dental veneers. This method can improve a wide range of dental concerns, including staining, gaps, chips, discolouration, asymmetry, and more. Veneers can also be used to add length and fullness to the teeth, helping to compensate for changes in facial volume that occur with the natural process of aging.

If this procedure sounds like something that could help you obtain your goals, talk to us today to schedule a consultation.

Do I Need a Full Mouth Reconstruction?

It can be hard to tell which dental treatment is right for you—not every concern is easily diagnosable by the average person (in fact, most are not). And sometimes you arrive at the dentist to discover one treatment is not enough to achieve your desired outcome. If you have two or more conditions you would like to address, full mouth reconstruction may be right for you. While the name can make the procedure sound like a major overhaul, in many cases it simply means combining two or more techniques to optimize the health, function, and beauty of an individual’s oral structures.

Full mouth reconstruction can be as uncomplicated as repairing cavities and treating minor gum disease. The treatment plan can also be more complex, involving dental implants, oral surgery, and orthodontics. Each procedure is customised to suit the needs and goals of the patient, and we will walk you through every stage of the plan so you can feel as comfortable and confident about the process as possible. Our extensively trained dentists are experienced in a wide array of advanced techniques, and we will never push you to accept a treatment you do not need. What we can do is help you identify which approaches will restore your smile and offer improved oral health.

Our team is friendly, knowledgeable, and happy to offer pressure-free advice about your smile. Let’s talk.

What to Expect During Full Mouth Reconstruction

If you have more than one dental concern you would like to address, full mouth reconstruction can be an excellent way to restore your smile to full health and beauty. At The Paddington Dental Surgery, we make every effort to ensure the restoration process is as comfortable as possible while providing exceptional results. To help you prepare for your treatment plan, our dentists would like you to know what to expect.

The first step of any procedure, especially a full mouth reconstruction, is the consultation. During this meeting, we will discuss your concerns, evaluate your oral structures, and assist you in deciding which treatments can optimise your results. In most cases, your program will require multiple visits, and we may be able to begin the same day as your consultation. At this initial meeting, we will go over how many visits you can expect as well as a general timeframe for completing treatment. If you have any questions at that time or between visits, we encourage you to voice them so we can help.

If you are nervous about dental treatment, we offer sedation dentistry techniques. We understand anxiety is very common, and we will work with you to put you at ease and complete the procedure as quickly and as safely as possible.

For more information, talk to our team. We are here to help you achieve the smile you’ve always wanted in a welcoming and compassionate environment.

What Are the Benefits of Dental Implants?

We often talk about how dental implants are considered the “gold standard” for missing teeth replacement, but what does that mean? Dental implants are designed to mimic the look and function of natural teeth, which means they can provide many of the same benefits as your natural teeth. Our extensively trained dentists can determine if this approach is right for your needs during an initial consultation, but if the following advantages sound like they might help your smile, talk to us today:

Dental Implants offer:

  • Permanent replacement of missing or seriously damaged teeth
  • Easy maintenance—same care as your natural teeth
  • Slip-free placement – no sliding or movement in the mouth
  • Treatment that will not affect surrounding healthy teeth
  • Preservation of gum and bone against decay and depletion
  • A natural look and feel

Bothered by missing teeth? We can evaluate your needs, discuss your goals, and review your options. Dental implants can be an excellent method of treatment, and we also offer a range of advanced alternative procedures. Call us today to find out more.

Dental Implants Vs. Fixed Dental Bridges

Teeth can be lost for a number of reasons. But regardless of the cause, it’s important for your dental and oral health to address this concern. It’s also nice to restore your full, beautiful smile. At our practice, we offer a variety of innovative solutions for missing teeth, and two of the most popular are dental implants and fixed dental bridges.

Dental implants are considered the “gold standard” replacement for missing teeth. They can be an excellent option whether you’re missing one, a few, or all your teeth. They give you the freedom to eat the foods you love and smile with confidence. Implants are also natural-looking and durable. Plus, they help your jaw maintain bone density the same way as your natural teeth do.

If you’re missing one or more teeth in a row, a fixed dental bridge is another option to consider. A slightly more affordable solution in the short term, bridges use porcelain dental crowns to disguise the missing tooth or teeth. The teeth on either side of the treated area are used as “supports” for the dental crown, creating a bridge effect. Bridges may need to be replaced occasionally, so the cost could ultimately be the same or more than dental implants in the long-term. Another consideration to keep in mind is that a bridge requires our skilled dentists to modify the healthy teeth on either side of the missing tooth or teeth—a dental implant does not.

Still have questions? We can help. Talk to us today about your options and we will find a solution that works best for your needs, goals, lifestyle, and budget.

Repairing Tooth Damage Caused by Bulimia

Affecting approximately ten percent of the population, eating disorders are a serious medical concern that can cause devastating harm to one’s physical and psychological health. Bulimia, in particular, can be the cause of considerable dental damage that can have lasting effects even if the individual manages to overcome his or her condition. Fortunately, there are a number of highly effective treatments that can restore the teeth and oral structures and give patients with eating disorders a chance to smile confidently again.

Some of the most common problems associated with bulimia include:

  • Enamel erosion
  • Gum disease
  • Dental decay and tooth loss
  • Staining and discolouration
  • Bite misalignment
  • Tooth sensitivity
  • Dry mouth

At The Paddington Dental Surgery, our experienced dentists are extensively trained in the most advanced restorative dental techniques and cosmetic treatments available. Our team is sensitive to the unique demands of patients with eating disorders, and we can provide dental hygiene tips for women and men in recovery. For more information about how to protect and repair your smile, or to schedule a consultation, please contact us today.

Stay up to date with our news