Is it better to have dental implants or dentures?

Dental implants and dentures both provide a way of replacing missing teeth. But what is the difference between dental implants and dentures? Dental implants are artificial tooth roots made out of titanium that can be inserted into your jawbone to anchor replacement teeth securely in place. They’re also more natural-looking than dentures, so they blend in better with your mouth and surrounding gums.

Dentures on the other hand, while cheaper than dental implants, don’t last as long because you have to replace them every few years. Dentures also require some gum tissue maintenance because they need to fit tightly against your gums or else they will slip around and cause problems like dry mouth from lack of saliva flow. Dentures often make it difficult to eat, resulting in dietary restrictions.

What are dental implants?

Dental implants are artificial tooth roots made out of titanium that can be inserted into your jawbone to anchor replacement teeth securely in place. They’re also more natural-looking than dentures, so they blend in better with your mouth and surrounding gums.

Placing dental implants may sound like a complex procedure, but patients are typically sedated and can be up and eating normally the very same day. The procedure usually takes less than an hour and is safe, simple, and highly effective for improving your appearance, function and health. After the surgery, a small healing cap on top of the implant helps protect it as your jawbone fuses around it over time.

Dental implants can last a lifetime as long as you maintain good oral hygiene and take care of them the same way you would your regular teeth.

How do they work?

When placed by a professional dentist, dental implants function like real teeth: they provide a foundation for replacement teeth to snap firmly into place, making them feel completely natural. Dentures don’t provide this same benefit because they can slip around in your mouth, whereas implants are secure enough to allow you to use your muscles how you normally would when biting or chewing food.

Dental implants also require much less upkeep than dentures, which require regular visits to the dentist to have them relined. Implants, on the other hand, do not require any special attention. Your dentist or hygienist will clean and examine them as part of your regular routine exams and professional cleanings.

Who should get which type of tooth replacement?

Dentures are more cost-effective but don’t last as long because you have to replace them every few years. Dentures also make it difficult to eat, resulting in dietary restrictions, while implants allow you to eat normally without any special attention or dietary restrictions.

Denture wearers must be careful when speaking because they can damage their dentures. However, if you have implants, you may experience a sore or tender jaw in the first few weeks after the procedure.

Dental implants also reduce speech problems caused by shifting or slipping of your teeth from regular use. Since implant anchors are secured in your jawbone, they act as the roots of your teeth and hold your teeth in place, preventing them from shifting or slipping.

Implants are fixed onto posts attached to dental implants that are anchored firmly into the jawbone. Once secured, these posts appear similar to real tooth roots. This means they can support one or more crowns for an esthetically enhanced appearance. Existing teeth are then reshaped or covered with crowns to provide support for the implants, which are replacement teeth that feel and function just like your own.

Dental implants may cost more than other types of tooth replacement but they last longer due to improved oral health over time. Denture wearers must be careful when speaking because they can damage their dentures.

Why you should consult with your dentist?

A dentist with expertise in dental implants is your best resource for learning more about the different treatments and procedures available. Your dentist can provide a customized treatment plan to address your unique oral health needs and concerns.

Your dentist will determine if you’re a candidate for dental implant surgery and recommend the appropriate course of action. In some cases, you may need to see a periodontist or oral surgeon who specializes in holding dental implants. Your dentist will also check for gum disease and bone loss because both can affect your chances of a successful outcome with implant surgery.

Your dentist or specialist can also help you weigh the benefits and risks of your available treatment options — including dentures, bridges, dental implants or other procedures.

Types of Dental Implants:

Dental implant surgery is a complex process that uses artificial tooth roots to support replacement teeth or dentures. Implant surgery can be used to replace one tooth or multiple teeth and can be used to attach partial dentures, full upper and lower dentures, or even a fixed bridge.

Your dentist or specialist will determine which type of dental implant is best for you after your initial consultation. There are two main types of dental implants:

– Endosteal Implants: The most natural-looking and feeling implants, because they’re made from a pure titanium material that has the same strength as your jawbone. They also have the longest track record of success. Endosteal dental implants are also the best choice if you’re looking for immediate replacement of missing teeth.

– Subperiosteally Implants: These implants provide the most support because they come with a “collar” of bone tissue that grows around them, which makes them longer-lasting than other types. They also provide a more stable base for replacement teeth or dentures.

When should you consider getting a new set of teeth?

Although many older adults can benefit from dental implants, you’re a good candidate for this procedure if you have healthy gums and enough bone to support implant surgery. You should also be committed to caring for your new teeth by brushing and flossing regularly and attending regular follow-up appointments after the first six months:

Your dentist will check newly implanted teeth during follow-up visits after surgery to ensure that they’re healthy. These regular checkups are essential to the success of your implants, especially when you first start wearing replacement teeth.

How will dental implants impact your life?

You may have concerns about cost, recovery time or how your new teeth look. You may also be wondering how dental implants will affect your diet or what changes you’ll notice right away.

Dental implant surgery is a more complicated procedure than some other restorative options, like bridges and dentures:

– Implants require the most up-front time and money compared to other options for tooth replacement.

– You may need several treatments before getting your new set of teeth. For example, you may need implants and temporary dentures before your final restoration is in place.

– You’ll experience some discomfort after implant surgery — including some swelling and soreness while your body heals. You can continue with most daily activities, though it’s best to avoid strenuous exercise for the first two weeks. But regular dental appointments are important to ensure your implants are healing properly.

You’ll probably have the best results if you have healthy gums and enough bone for the placement of the implant(s). Your dentist will use an x-ray or other imaging device to check that you’re a strong candidate for implant surgery before recommending it.

DISCLAIMER: The advice offered is intended to be informational only and generic in nature. It is in no way offering a definitive diagnosis or specific treatment recommendations for your particular situation. Any advice offered is no substitute for proper evaluation and care by a qualified dentist.