Dental implants and dentures are two of the most common solutions to replace missing teeth. But how do you determine which of the two is the best option for you? Dr. Caleb Robinson discusses the benefits and drawbacks of New Philadelphia, OH dentures and dental implants.
Dentures: What to Know
Removable dentures are commonly used to replace a full arch of missing teeth. They’re usually made of a metal and resin base with plastic or ceramic teeth. Some of the biggest benefits of dentures are that they’re less expensive upfront and you can get your restoration faster than you would with dental implants.
However, there are also many drawbacks to dentures. While you don’t have to pay as much upfront, you incur additional costs as the years go by. When you lose a tooth, the jawbone starts to deteriorate. Since dentures don’t replace the tooth root, the jawbone continues to deteriorate. You’ll need to get your dentures readjusted or replaced in the future.
Dentures only give you back about 30-40% of your bite function. You’ll have to eliminate certain foods from your diet. Dentures require adhesive to stay in as well. They can slip or fall out when you’re eating or speaking. Since they’re removable, you have to take them out at the end of each day and make sure they’re properly cleaned.
About Dental Implants
Dental implants are often considered the gold standard of tooth replacement. They’re made up of three separate parts. First, a titanium implant post is placed in your jaw. Next, a piece called an abutment connects the implant post to the final restoration. The final restoration is usually a dental crown, but dental implants can also support a fixed bridge or denture.
While implants cost more upfront, you won’t have more costs with them down the line. Dental implants are the only tooth replacement option that also replaces the tooth root. They stop the deterioration of the jaw and may even be able to reverse some deterioration that’s already happened.
This process is also what makes implants take longer. When the posts are placed in the jaw, they require 3-6 months to heal and fuse with the jawbone. This process gives you unmatched stability. Dental implants give you back 100% of your bite function. You won’t have to worry about removing foods from your diet, adhesive, or the restoration slipping or falling out.
Implants look and feel the most like your natural teeth. Though there have been many advancements in the dental field, dentures are still bulky and take time for you to get used to. This isn’t a problem with implants. Since they’re a fixed restoration, you just need to brush, floss, and visit the dentist regularly, and you’re set for years to come.
Getting Dental Implants or Dentures in New Philadelphia, Ohio
Do you think one of these options is the best choice to replace your missing teeth? Call us or schedule an appointment online.