The dental restorations chosen to replace one or more teeth depend on many factors; some include, time, budget, jaw structure, and even personal preference. There are many benefits to choosing something removable like dentures, as well as something permanent like implants.
If you have missing teeth and are weighing your options, consider the following?
Wearing dentures
Dentures have been used to replace missing teeth for hundreds of years. Antiquated dentures used throughout history were actually made of gold, ivory, and lead, but provided an opportunity for a cosmetically appealing smile. Modern, complete dentures are made from acrylic and tooth-colored materials and are recommended when all of the teeth in a row have been lost or removed. Dentures are offered in many version, from immediate restorations to teeth supposed by dental implants, as well as partial dentures to replace a few teeth missing from your smile.
What to Consider with Dentures
There are several advantages to conventional, removable dentures, the most significant being that they are a cost-effective way of replacing teeth. Another reason some choose dentures is because the treatment is minimally invasive, requiring little to no oral surgery in most cases.
Denture wearers should seek quality prosthetics that fit well and are durable, to avoid discomfort, slipping, and speech abnormalities. Wearing dentures also has the potential to cause damage to the surrounding areas. Many others choose not to replace their missing teeth with dentures because the care and maintenance can be cumbersome.
Daily Life with Dental Implants
Compared to the experience of wearing dentures, implants support a new set of teeth that feel natural. A few as two implants can be placed to stabilize a full set of replacement teeth, or single teeth can be restored with an implant and a dental crown. Implant prosthetics are made from titanium and can be topped with prosthetics of varying materials to support aesthetic and longevity.
What to Consider with Implants
Dental implants provide a sturdy and permanent option to filling the gaps of your smile. Implants act the same as a tooth root, binding the tooth to the jaw bone. Unlike dentures, implants don’t require accessories like denture cleaners and glues. Implants also improve your oral health by stimulating tissue surrounding the implant post.
Dental implants come with and initially higher proce. While some feel that having dental implants placed is too expensive or invasive, implants do provide long-terms benefits that other restorations cannot, such as full biting and chewing as well as dense and supportive bone. Implants are an investment, but can prove to be less costly in the long-run, when compared to maintenance costs for less permanent prosthetics.
Ask SmileNeeds Dental about your options today
If you have missing teeth and aren’t sure which direction to take, give us a call today to set up a consultation to discuss your options.