If you have missing teeth, you may think that your only choice is to replace them with dentures. However, dental implants are an excellent alternative for many people. While dental implant costs more compared to dentures, they provide more benefits. That said, even if dental implants costs more than other alternatives, it is a worthwhile investment.
One advantage of dental implants over dentures is permanence. Both types of restoration will last you about the same amount of time—about ten years or so. However, unlike dentures, dental implants don’t need to be removed at night and put back in in the morning.
As soon as they are securely placed into your jawbone, they can stay there permanently if you want them to. Another advantage of dental implants over dentures is feel and function. Because dental implant fixtures can mimic teeth in both size and color, they are able to provide a more natural feel than dentures.
Additionally, because dental implants form an actual root structure within your jawbone, you are less likely to experience the same kinds of wear that denture wearers often do. Even if you have not had success with other forms of treatment for tooth loss in the past, dental implants may be right for you. Consider talking to a dentist about your options if you want a long-lasting solution to tooth loss.
According to the American Dental Association (ADA), experts recommend that persons with periodontal disease or loose teeth consider dental implants over dentures. With proper treatment of gum disease, a tooth may be saved. The placement of an implant can replace it in its natural state.
If implants become exposed through erosion or any kind of trauma like hitting them with a fork, they’re not going anywhere. They’re just made out of titanium, a very strong material so when you hit it with a fork it just bounces back and looks like nothing happened because they’re so strong.
The advantages of implants are many: implants feel natural. When properly cared for, they’re nearly indistinguishable from your natural teeth. They don’t wiggle or slide around so you have full control over what you eat.
Implants are secure, they do not shift out of place when you chew. Implants look and feel like real teeth. Over time, implants can develop a surface layer of enamel just like natural teeth. You can brush them just like natural teeth as well.
Dentures have a tendency to slip and fall causing embarrassment in social situations. Denture wearers often experience sore jaws due to the additional stress placed on chewing muscles while eating. Prosthetic denture users must also continuously keep up with their denture maintenance.
In summary, dentures are a great option for those who aren’t ready to commit to permanent dental implants. Dental implants are much more secure though and, once fully integrated into the jawbone, offer greater comfort throughout every stage of mastication (chewing) versus standard dentures or bridges.