Dentures vs. Dental Implants: What’s the Difference?
Suffering from missing teeth can be both an aesthetic concern and a functional one. Not only may missing teeth make it harder for you to chew or speak, but you may also be embarrassed by the cosmetic appearance of your teeth. Fortunately, with modern technology, there are solutions available. Two of the best solutions are dentures and dental implants. Here’s what you should know about the differences between dentures and dental implants and the benefits and drawbacks of each. To learn more, talk to your dentist directly.
What Are Dentures?
Most people are familiar with the basics of dentures. Dentures refer to prosthetic teeth that are removable. They can be made for both the upper and lower set of teeth, and can be fitted for a mouth where other dental procedures aren’t an option. Some of the benefits of dentures include that they require very little prep work (just a fitting in advance) in order to use, they are removable and therefore not a permanent or irreversible procedure, they are relatively low-cost, and they are not invasive. The downsides, however, are that they require regular maintenance, can be uncomfortable, and may need to be refitted over time.
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are a more permanent solution for missing teeth. A dental implant is a restorative procedure in which a post is implanted into the gum and the bone, and then is capped with a crown that looks and feels like a natural tooth. The benefits of dental implants are that they are permanent, look like natural teeth, and require no maintenance other than normal oral hygiene care, such as brushing and flossing. The downside to dental implants is that they are expensive and they require a very invasive procedure to install. First, the damaged root will be extracted. Then, a hole will be drilled into the jawbone and the post will be fitted. Once bone has started to grow back over the post, the crown will be fitted onto it.
Which Is Better for Me?
There are benefits and drawbacks of each type of dental restoration treatment—what works best for you will be based on your oral health and the number of teeth you need replaced, how much bone you have in your mouth, your budget, and your personal preferences. It’s always a good idea to speak with your dentist about your options and any questions or concerns you have.
Talk to Your Dentist Today
To learn more about dental implants vs. dentures and what may be the best option for you, call Distinctive Dental Solutions today. We can answer all of your questions and provide you with the professional advice you’re looking for.
