Teeth are there for our most essential everyday functions like eating, chewing, and talking. And everybody is prone to damage, either through infection or injury. And while this is common, everybody deserves to have teeth that are healthy and look natural, and this is where if you have experienced tooth loss, it is important to choose replacement teeth that look and feel good. You may want to consider dentures or dental implants. But when it comes to the debate between implants and dentures, which is really the best?
Dental Implants
A dental implant is a titanium post. This is inserted into the jawbone, and a dental implant is there to replicate the root of a tooth. This is a permanent solution as the implant bonds with the jawbone. As it creates an anchor, this means single or multiple teeth can be replaced. The process consists of the following:
- The implant is surgically placed into the jawbone.
- The implant fuses with the jawbone.
- The teeth grow together, which forms a foundation for the replacement teeth.
- Once the implant bonds with the jawbone, an “abutment,” which is a connecting device, is put on top of the implant.
- Finally, an implant-supported bridge, tooth, or crown is attached to the abutment.
The Pros of Dental Implants
Implants are fantastic long-term solutions. Rather than being the quick fix, the positives of dental implants are wide-ranging:
Dental Implants Could Last a Lifetime
As they are considered a long-lasting replacement solution to teeth, they can last a lifetime, just as long as you look after the implants. You may need to have the crowns replaced every ten years or so. But if you look after your tooth implants, they will serve you well. The most important thing to do is to keep a rigorous dental hygiene habit. Make sure that you brush your teeth and gums twice a day, floss at least once a day, and have regular check-ups with your dentist. Do this, and you will get the most out of your implants.
Dental Implants Look Like Natural Teeth
Not only do they look like natural teeth, but they feel like teeth. This is fantastic for people who feel insecure about their teeth, especially those people who have had fillings in the past that aren’t the same color as their natural teeth. When the implant has been fitted, it is hard to tell the difference. And the tooth implant is anchored into your jaw, making sure that it is as strong as your existing teeth.
Dental Implants Can Prevent Bone Loss
If you have a missing tooth, it doesn’t just affect your ability to eat food, but it can impact the jawbone. As your jawbone is the foundation for your teeth, this keeps everything together. A missing tooth results in the jawbone deteriorating and weakening over time. And this can lead to what is called resorption, which can make your cheeks look hollow. By having dental implants placed directly into your jaw, the screw acts as a root, so your jawbone stays strong, resulting in no further bone degradation.
Implants Are Cost-Effective
Dental implants are a great investment. When you compare it to other methods, they aren’t the cheapest solution, but when you look at them as a long-term and lifelong solution, they are very cost-effective. As soon as your implants have been fitted, as long as you look after them, you won’t need to have the crowns replaced for at least a decade.
The Cons of Dental Implants
The benefits far outweigh the disadvantages, but it is important to remember that there are some reasons why dental implants might not be the best choice:
The Procedure Can Take a Long Time
The process of dental implants can take a number of months. If you are replacing a damaged tooth, this will need to be taken care of first. Once the anchor is fitted, it requires another few months until it heals and the surrounding bone is encouraged to grow. Finally, the truth is implanted. For those who are looking for a quick fix, this is not the right approach for you.
You Need To Meet Certain Criteria
In order to qualify for implant dentistry, you have to be in good physical health, but also potentially live a certain lifestyle. For example, it is not advised for smokers to have dental implants because the smoke can cause them to fail. In addition, if you’ve already experienced bone loss due to losing teeth, the dentist will have to ascertain if there is enough bone strength for a successful dental implant.
Dentures
While dentures are not the only option for those who want to replace missing teeth dentures a very suitable option for many people. Commonly known as false teeth, dentures are removable prosthetic devices made to replace missing teeth. They are supported by the surrounding tissues of the mouth. The traditional dentures are removable, but there are many designs that can be added to additional teeth or dental implants, and usually consist of two main types; full dentures and partial dentures. The typical procedure of putting dentures in consists of the following:
- Removing the tooth.
- Making a mold of your mouth to create a suitable denture. This also includes a bite mold, which is a wax block used to check that your biting is comfortable. At this point, your dentist can ask you to choose your new set of dentures.
- The new teeth are set in wax.
- The final process is fitting the denture, where your dentist will give you instructions on how to look after it.
The Pros of Dentures
Dentures are a fantastic option for people who want to replace missing teeth, but they come with many different pros:
Dentures Are Cost-Effective
Comparing dentures to other dental practices, they are a cost-effective option if you want a full set of teeth.
A Great Option for People Who Have Bad Teeth or Jawbones
A dental implant, for example, will require a strong jaw and healthy gums. Dentures can fit perfectly into any mouth, regardless of the quality of a person’s oral health.
A Quick Way To Fix Aesthetic Issues
If you have more than one missing tooth or a full row with teeth missing, they are a great choice as they look like your teeth.
They Do Not Require a Surgical Procedure
All that is required is molds and impressions taken. As a result, this is timely and effective if you want to fix issues sooner rather than later.
They Are Easy To Maintain
If you opt for removable or temporary dentures, you can easily look after them. You can clean them either in or out of your mouth. And after eating, they only require a quick rinse. Whenever you are not wearing them, dentures go in a glass of water to give your gums a break.
The Cons of Dentures
While modern dentistry has fixed many of the long-standing problems associated with dentures, some downsides remain:
Dentures Can Wear Down Over Time
Because the underlying bone will constantly change, and constant use will eventually mean the denture will not fit as well as it used to. This means you will have to replace them periodically.
It May Take Some Time To Get Used to Them
Dentures can take some time to get used to, but people do find that they can become somewhat embarrassing in certain situations. For example, they could become loose and fall out of your mouth, especially after prolonged use over a number of years. Because the shape of your dentures covers your palate, it can also have an impact on how you taste your food.
You May Need Temporary Dentures
During the process of getting dentures, you may have to go back and forth to the dentist. There are a number of procedures, such as getting molds, removing any affected teeth, and fitting the dentures. This means that you will not know how the dentures look in your mouth until your final appointments. While the dentist goes through every single option, the temporary dentures can be frustrating.
Which Is Better for You?
As you can see, with both implants and dentures, there are ups and downs to each approach. But the important thing to remember is that you consult your dentist. They will have the best recommendations for you based on your dental history and your individual health. But ultimately, the decision will be down to you. And you will have to consider some key factors, such as if you’re on a budget, if your jaw is already weak, or you need a quick solution. But when it comes to the long-term impacts, it is better to focus on implants. Due to the procedure, as well as the security and stability of dental implants, this is a preferred option for many.
As around 120 million Americans are missing a tooth or more, it is essential for you to address these issues as soon as possible. This is why it is so important to choose the right solution for your needs. Whether it is dentures or implants, there are ups and downs to both.