If you’re missing one or more of your teeth, you may be wondering if you should choose dentures or dental implants. What’s right for you, and what is the difference between these restorative treatments? Find out now.
Dental implants consist of a titanium post that’s surgically inserted into your gums and jaw. Over time, this implant heals and bonds with the jaw tissue, acting as an artificial root. One implant can hold one crown (false tooth), or multiple implants may be used to retain a bridge or a set of implant-supported dentures.
Dentures come in two primary styles. Partial dentures are used if you still have most of your teeth, and they are made of a plastic and wire framework that supports multiple false teeth. These clip onto your remaining healthy teeth.
Full dentures, on the other hand, require the removal of all of your remaining teeth. They are built to fit perfectly over your gums, restoring the upper arch, lower arch, or both arches of your smile.
Why might dentures be the right choice for you? First, they are very affordable, and are typically covered (at least partially) by dental insurance. If you are on a tight budget, dentures are definitely a good option for restoring your smile.
Additionally, you can restore your smile quickly. It’s usually possible to fit and build your dentures in a few appointments over a 2-4 week period, so you can get back to your day-to-day routine quickly.
Of course, dentures also help restore your appearance and your self-esteem, as well as your ability to eat your favorite foods after you lose one or more teeth.
Think that dental implants may be a better option for you? Let’s discuss a few of their benefits. First, dental implants require very little special care and maintenance compared to dentures.
They also last longer, with a typical lifespan of at least 30 years. Many patients are able to keep their implants for the rest of their lives. Implants tend to also look and feel a bit more natural compared to dentures.
Implants also have the unique ability to stimulate and support the jaw bone just like a natural tooth, which prevents jaw bone loss. Over time, bone loss can affect your appearance, but implants stop this issue completely.
Choosing between dental implants and dentures isn’t easy, even if you know some of the basics about each treatment. So don’t go it alone. Get in touch with The Burkitt Center for Comprehensive Dentistry today for an appointment, and explore your options in more detail. Our doctors can help you choose the right treatment based on your needs, your preferences, and your budget. Contact us online or give us a call at (615) 941-3368 to get started.
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