Dental Implants vs Dentures

What are the Benefits of Dental Implants vs Dentures?

When considering dental implants vs dentures, there are a number of things you should keep in mind. While both can be a solution for smile restoration, more and more people are choosing dental implants vs dentures due to their improved comfort, better chewing ability they offer and many other advantages that we’ll cover in this article.

Dentures

Dentures are the most traditional option when it comes to smile restoration options. These familiar devices have long been a staple of dentistry, and they do offer some advantages. They are relatively inexpensive, and for some they work just fine. Dentures work by creating a mold of your teeth and then casting it in a kind of plastic or rubber-like material. Then they are affixed to the gum with an adhesive or cream. They are only meant to be worn during the day time and must be removed at night for cleaning. Their affordability makes them a go-to option for many patients.

Disadvantages of Dentures

They often wear down within a few years, and will have to be remade or realigned in order to keep up with the changing shape of your jaw. Why is your jaw changing?

Good question! Without the teeth present, the jawbone will eventually begin to decay, which can lead to further deterioration of the facial structure. They also often feel fake or unnatural, and can slip and move around, causing difficulty when chewing and speaking.

They will also likely need creams and adhesives in order to stay in place. This means that you will have to reapply the adhesive every time that you put in the dentures which will likely be a daily occurrence. You also may not be able to chew certain foods, due to the weaker chewing ability offered by the dentures.

The dentures will need to be removed nightly in order to be cleaned, a ritual that can be easily disrupted by misplaced dentures, unexpected plans, or even just waking up late.

When considering the expense of dentures, factor in the cost of them over your expected lifetime. While they don;’t seem expensive now, they can add up as you are forced to replace them every few years as they wear down.

Dental Implants

Dental Implants offer a more permanent solution to missing teeth than dentures. They may seem like they require more of an investment, but consider their benefits.

  • For one, they actually preserve the remaining jawbone which keeps you looking like yourself, and maintains your facial structure.
  • They feel and function just like regular teeth. You’ll hardly notice them, as they will be matched to your natural tooth color. Where in the past they may not have been very translucent, modern implants resemble teeth quite readily.
  • There is no need for any special creams or adhesives, and you can clean them just like your regular teeth. Brush twice daily and floss at least once a day to maintain good oral health. Your life will hardly be interrupted after getting the implant. You will have a hard time forgetting the implant in the morning – it’s fused directly into the jawbone!
  • Dental implants are strong and stable, as their base is anchored directly into the jawbone and fit comfortably. Ths means that you never have to worry about them slipping when eating, drinking and talking. You can even continue to enjoy your favorite foods, unlike traditional dentures. Dental implants are so much like your natural teeth, you will probably forget they are even there.

Disadvantages of Dental Implants

  • They can be costly, and not every insurance will cover them. However, they are an investment in your overall health. Your dental health impacts every other aspect of your health, so it is important to take the best care you can of your mouth.
  • Despite some sometimes lengthy recovery time, many people are choosing dental implants as their go-to tooth-replacement dental surgery. And for good reason – dental implants offer all the benefits of a natural tooth.
  • They made need to be replaced if you suffer from bone loss also known as Osteoporosis.

If you are curious about exploring your tooth-replacement options or you have more questions that you would like us to answer, give Upland Dental Group & Implant Center in Upland, CA a call at  (909) 985-1966 to schedule an appointment today.