If you are missing any teeth then you will need to have them replaced as soon as possible. The two most common options for tooth replacement are dental implants and dentures, but what option might be best for you?
Why Might Someone Choose to Get Implants or Dentures?
Implants and dentures both serve the same function: to replace missing teeth. They allow patients to chew food, they support facial muscles by restoring the natural jaw shape, they can improve speech, and many of our patients report feeling increased self-esteem and reduced negative feelings about their appearance.
How to Decide Which Option is Best For You?
As dentures and mental implants are both made with the purpose of replacing missing teeth you will need to consider other options to help you decide which is right for you. These include price, preference, and the health of your jawbone and remaining teeth.
Advantages of Dental Implants
One major advantage of implants is that they do not require much special maintenance. Caring for your implant(s) entails regular dental care; brushing at least twice a day and daily flossing will keep your implant clean alongside your remaining natural teeth. Another advantage is that dental implants are a more permanent solution, and so patients in their 60's and younger may prefer implants as they can provide decades of service (provided they are well cared for).
Dental can potentially y be more comfortable for chewing as they they are a permanent structure within your mouth.
Disadvantages of Dental Implants
Implants tend to have a higher cost right from the start which can be a reason why patients decide against them in favour of dentures. Another issue is that implants require a certain bone density to be affixed to a patient's jaw, and so if you have previously suffered from bone loss, they may be a poor fit for your needs.
Some of the main health complications with dental implants that may deter patients includes infection and mechanical problems, such as loose posts or cracked crowns.
Advantages of Dentures
The most common reason that someone might be drawn to dentures is that they typically have a lower cost in the beginning. They also work much better for individuals who've suffered bone loss in their jaw, and for those who are not interested in the more invasive treatments and procedures required to install a dental implant.
It is mainly because of these reasons that many people opt to have implants rather than dentures.
Disadvantages of Dentures
While implants are permanently fixed inside your mouth, dentures are removable and will require special maintenance to keep clean. In order to clean dentures on a daily basis, you should be removing them and thoroughly cleaning them after every time you eat. You may also need to brush away any bits of adhesive that are lingering on your gums. Furthermore, you shouldn’t wear your dentures overnight. Dentures should be soaked in water or a special cleaning solution while you sleep.
One thing to keep in mind is that our mouths are forever changing and this means that if you have dentures you will need to occasionally have visits to determine if your dentures still fit you properly. Implants are permanent, and will typically not require this.
Dentures vs Dental Implants - The Final Verdict
Ultimately, there are good reasons to choose both implants and dentures, the choice you make will depend on your unique situation.
Do you still have questions about dentures or dental implants?
A dentist will be able to discuss these options further to potentially assist you in choosing the option that will best suit your unique situation.