Deciding Between Dental Implants and Dentures
Missing teeth can be embarrassing, making you uncomfortable or self-conscious when it comes to meeting new people. Missing teeth can also have some practical inconveniences too, as missing teeth could interfere with your ability to eat or speak. Fortunately, there are medical treatments available for missing teeth, including both dental implants and dentures. Here’s what you should know about the difference between these two treatment options and how to choose the best one for you—
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are placed through dental implant surgery. This tooth-replacement surgery involves replacing damaged or missing teeth with metal, screw-like posts that act as tooth roots, and then attaching an artificial tooth to these posts. Dental implants are permanent, as the metal screws are actually placed in the jaw. Because of this, the surgery takes many months to complete. The first stage of the surgery involves installing the metal posts. After this, the jaw needs to heal, which can take multiple months, before placement of the fake teeth.
What Are Dentures?
Dentures, unlike dental implants, do not involve surgery to use. Dentures are custom-designed and fitted and are selected to replace multiple teeth, not just one or two teeth. Dentures are removable, and should be removed nightly for cleaning and sleeping.
Choosing Between Dentures vs. Implants
Dental implants are designed for those patients who are missing a single tooth or perhaps a few teeth, but are not missing the majority of teeth. They are also for patients who have relatively strong jawbones and healthy gums. As such, they may be best for patients who have missing teeth as a result of an accident or acute incident rather than gum disease and decay.
Dentures, on the other hand, are designed for patients who do not want to undergo—or are not good candidates for—dental implant surgery. These are patients who do not have healthy gums or jawbones, or who are missing multiple teeth.
How to Learn More About the Best Option for You
Making a decision about implants vs. dentures can be complex, and you may have many questions about the process and which is the most appropriate choice for you. Your best resource when you’re unsure of what to pursue is your dentist. At Distinctive Dental Solutions, our dentist can answer your questions and provide you with a professional recommendation following a full assessment. To learn more about our team and how we can help you when you’re considering options for replacing missing teeth and improving your smile, call Distinctive Dental Solutions today.
