Dental Implants vs Dentures
The loss of a tooth can feel like a tragedy; however, it is very common with 120 million people in the United States currently missing at least one tooth. While the loss of teeth was traditionally remedied with dentures, new technology has now presented patients with the option of using dental implants. Those missing one or two teeth may feel uncertain as they try to determine which tooth replacement option to pursue. Keep reading to learn the pros and cons of dental implants vs dentures.
Dentures for Missing Teeth
As most people already know, dentures can be slipped into the mouth and fit to look like an entirely new set of teeth. Since dentures simply sit inside the mouth, there is no painful operation associated with them – patients can receive their dentures and then wear them shopping within the next few hours. Dentures are also low-cost, making it possible for patients on a budget to receive a new smile without breaking the bank! With partial dentures, individuals who are only missing a few teeth can still use them.
Problems with Dentures
While dentures don’t involve any invasive treatments, it’s important that they fit properly. Dentures that are off in size can cause sore gums and require adhesive to keep them in place. Just like regular teeth, dentures will need to be cleaned daily. Some people complain that dentures make it difficult for them to eat normally and report that a set of dentures never feels like their own teeth. While dentures may come with a lower price-tag, they will not last forever and will need to be replaced within as little as five years.
Dental Implants vs Dentures
Unlike dentures, dental implants are individual replacement teeth that actually screw into the jaw where the missing tooth used to sit. Patients who receive implants can use them to replace one tooth or all of their teeth. People who have implants report that they feel like their original teeth and they are able to continue on with life as if tooth loss had never happened. Since the implant is screwed into the jaw, patients can eat whatever they want and find that they are not limited. Just like natural teeth, implants should be brushed and flossed daily.
Problems with Implants
Since implants require screwing a replacement tooth into the jaw, the process comes with a much longer recovery time. It typically takes 3-6 months for the screw to fuse into the bone. Implants are also much more expensive than dentures, making it difficult for some patients to afford. While most implants last up to twenty years, there are some cases where the bone continues to grow and the implants fall out.
Which One is Better?
Ultimately, both dentures and implants have their positives and negatives. Since dentures are a more affordable option, they are a fine choice for those who are on a budget and are missing several of their teeth. But, when possible, dental implants provide the most natural and appealing results. With dental implants, patients can have one or more teeth replaced and, after the initial recovery process, can continue on with life as normal without worrying about taking out dentures or struggling with eating restrictions.
Losing a tooth is never something anyone wants to go through; however, in today’s world of modern technology, replacing a missing tooth is easier than ever before. Thanks to implants, individuals who experience tooth loss can now receive a replacement tooth that matches the one that they lost. With implants, there is no worry about dentures falling out or sliding out of place while eating or talking. Implants make it possible for individuals to continue on with life as if they never lost a tooth.
If you are considering replacing teeth and have questions about dental implants vs dentures, contact us today to arrange a free consultation. With over 40 years of experience serving Western New York, our Buffalo dentists would love to help you achieve the smile of your dreams.
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