What makes a dentist the perfect fit for you? Compassion and empathy? Attention to detail? Excellent communication skills? If you’re looking for all this and more, you’ve come to the right place. Dr. Rick Miller at Bent Tree Dental is known for providing high-quality care with a personal touch. And if you’re exploring tooth replacement options, you’re in even better hands. Dr. Miller is a trusted dentist that does dental implants, offering lasting solutions to restore your smile and confidence. With over 30 years of experience serving the Dallas, Texas area, he’s committed to delivering the best care possible to every patient.
Dr. Miller regularly sees patients who want to replace one or more missing teeth. Often, patients are unsure whether to choose dental implants or conventional dentures. We educate patients on the pros and cons of dentures and help them determine the best option.
Dentures vs. Implants: Advice From a Dentist That Does Dental Implants
Many patients think traditional dentures are the most economical option for tooth replacement. However, they have drawbacks that cost you emotionally and financially in the long run. Dentures rely on fit and suction to stay in place, which can often be unstable, especially in the lower part of the jaw. This can lead to shifting or slipping while eating, speaking, or even laughing, making everyday activities uncomfortable or embarrassing.
Poorly fitting dentures can cause sore spots or painful blisters on the gums, making them difficult to wear consistently. And since dentures don’t stimulate the jawbone the way natural teeth do, the bone gradually shrinks (a process called resorption). This can result in a sunken facial appearance and even more instability in how dentures fit over time.
Dentures also provide significantly less chewing power than natural teeth. This limits the types of food you can enjoy and can negatively affect your overall nutrition.
Luckily, there are more advanced solutions worth considering. One of the most effective alternatives is dental implants.
Dental implants are a long-lasting, stable solution. They are made from titanium and naturally fuse with your jawbone, mimicking the function of natural tooth roots. This not only preserves jawbone density but also restores full chewing ability, improves speech, and helps maintain your facial structure.
The process for dental implants varies depending on which size you’re eligible for. Dr. Miller offers both traditional and mini dental implants.
Mini Implants vs. Traditional Dental Implants: Which Option Is Right for You?
Traditional dental implants and mini implants are both effective tooth replacement options. However, conventional implants may not be suitable for all patients. For starters, they are larger than mini implants, measuring 5 mm in width. These larger implants consist of an implant post and abutment, which is the connector between the post and your new false teeth. Due to their size and multiple components, the procedure is complex and typically performed in several stages. Patients also must have enough bone to accommodate the implant size.
To get a traditional implant, Dr. Miller makes an incision in your gums to access the underlying bone. Then, he drills into the bone to place the implant post. Typically, Dr. Miller cannot attach the abutment on the same day. He can only do this once osseointegration—the healing phase—is complete, which can take several months.
Alternatively, mini implants boast a one-piece, slim design. These narrow-diameter implants are less than 3 mm wide, which is almost half the size of a conventional implant. Because they are smaller and a single unit, Dr. Miller doesn’t need to make an incision in your gums. Instead, he drills a small hole through the gums and into the jawbone. This minimally invasive procedure results in a quicker healing time and less pain and discomfort. Additionally, some patients may be eligible to get their false teeth on the same day Dr. Miller places the mini implant.
Mini implants can support dentures, making them more stable, especially in terms of chewing power. They can also support a dental bridge or a single dental crown.
If you’re unsure about which option is better suited for you, visit Dr. Miller to discuss your situation, needs, and goals.
Start Your Treatment With Dr. Miller Today
Ready to explore your options for replacing your teeth? Dr. Miller can help you make the right decision based on your bone health and lifestyle. With years of experience in both traditional and mini dental implants, he’ll ensure the best solution for your smile. Call today to schedule your free consultation with a trusted dentist that does dental implants. Whether you’re missing one tooth or more, he can help you restore your smile with confidence and care.
