With today’s advanced dentures, the idea of tooth-replacement can often seem like a new one. The truth, however, is that humans have sought to restore their chewing ability after tooth loss for thousands of years. For instance, in 2006, archaeologists found the 4500-year-old remains of a man whose remaining teeth had been ground down, apparently in preparation to accommodate false teeth. However, while today’s dentures are created to look nearly identical to real teeth, they still lack an important component—roots—which can be provided with an appropriate number of dental implants.
Modern Dentures
Just a couple of centuries ago, the most attractive dentures weren’t exactly the most durable ones. Materials like elephant and hippopotamus ivory may have seemed quite elegant, but typically could not withstand the pressures of consistent biting and chewing. The durable dental porcelain that many of today’s dentures are made of can withstand much greater pressure for longer periods of time, but still lack the foundation that supports your natural teeth.
A More Lifelike Foundation with Dental Implants
Dentures rely on the natural contour of your dental ridge and the suction created by the concave shape of your mouth’s roof to stay in place. However, their placement is not permanent; therefore, they cannot match the stability of your natural teeth. To bolster their foundation, we often recommend securing your partial or full denture to one or more dental implants. An implant is a small post that is surgically inserted into your jawbone, which fuses to the implant to effectively create a prosthetic tooth root. The implanted posts and the connective abutments attached to them allow us to secure your dentures more firmly, anchored within your jawbone. Replacing your lost teeth’s roots can also help preserve the health and strength of your jawbone, which relies on teeth roots’ stimulation to receive an ample supply of nutrients.
ABOUT YOUR BUTLER, PA, DENTIST:
Dr. Keelan and our dedicated team at Keelan Dental offer patients the comfortable, convenient dental care that everyone needs and deserves. To schedule an initial consultation, or your next dental appointment, call our office in Butler, PA at (724) 285-4153. We proudly welcome patients of all ages from Butler, Cranberry Township, Mars, Pittsburgh, Butler County, and all surrounding communities.