If you have missing or damaged teeth, you’ll need to choose between dentures or dental implants. Both can restore your beautiful smile, but they have different benefits and drawbacks. That’s why we’ve put together this informational post about the difference between dentures and dental implants.
Dentures
Dentures are removable, prosthetic teeth that are supported by the soft and hard tissues left behind when you lose a tooth or teeth. Depending on how many missing teeth you have, you’ll choose between two types of dentures: complete dentures or partial dentures.
Partial dentures may have a metal framework that connects to the surrounding teeth, or the connector may be more natural looking. Sometimes, you’ll need a crown that covers your natural teeth to improve the fit of your removable partial dentures.
You might choose complete dentures when you need to replace an entire upper or lower (or both) dental arch. Regardless of whether you need partial or complete dentures, modern dentures are custom-made for your mouth and teeth.
What are the Benefits of Dentures?
When choosing between dentures or dental implants, understanding the benefits of each can help. Dentures are typically less expensive than dental implants, and they are typically inserted on the same day any damaged teeth are removed.
Additionally, your dentist won’t have to insert anything into your jawbone as with dental implants. While your dentist may choose to use an overdenture to fit over your remaining natural teeth, the process of getting dentures is usually less invasive than dental implants.
Dental Implants
Like dentures, your dentist will make your dental implants so that they appear like your natural teeth. Dental implants also function like your natural teeth, and because your dentist will screw them into your jawbone, they are sturdy enough to last a lifetime.
Additionally, you won’t remove your dental implants as you do with dentures. Instead, you care for them just like you do with your natural teeth. You will brush and floss as normal. The process of getting dental implants is more invasive than that for dentures, but the benefits include replacement teeth that look and function like natural teeth.
Which is Better — Dentures or Dental Implants?
This is really a decision only you can make. Dentures are usually more affordable, but you must remove them to clean them, and they can sometimes cause problems when eating. Dental implants function like your natural teeth, you don’t have to remove them, and you care for them just like your natural teeth, but they cost more and the procedure to get them is more invasive and longer.
Final Thoughts
Your smile is an important part of your appearance and self-confidence. At Duval Periodontics, we understand that choosing between dentures or dental implants can be difficult. Contact our offices today, and we’ll be happy to go over your options and help you make the best decision for your oral health.
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