Dental Implants vs. Dentures: Which is Right For You?

Do you have one or more missing teeth and are planning to get them replaced? Whether you lost your teeth in an accident or due to an infection, it is safe to assume that you want new pearly whites that blend seamlessly with the rest of your teeth, feel comfortable and allow you to chew and speak naturally. If you are looking for an all-encompassing solution, you have two contenders— dental implants and dentures.

To set things straight, most people assume that these teeth restoration methods are only meant for the elderly, but this is far from the truth. A study claims that 53% of people with dentures began wearing them before the age of 44. Dentures and dental implants are much more common than you think and among the most sought-after dental procedures. If you are planning to get yourself a new set of pearly whites but are unsure of which route to follow, we’ll weigh the pros and cons of dental implants vs. dentures so that you can pick the most appropriate treatment for you.

Why Replacing Teeth is Crucial for Your Oral Health?

Before you book an appointment with your dentist, it is important to understand why you cannot overlook a teeth replacement. You’d be surprised to know that failing to fix a missing tooth can result in costly, painful, and long-term health problems. Since the main function of your jaw is to hold your teeth in place, when a tooth goes missing and is not replaced by a new one, your jawbone starts to disintegrate. This process is known as resorption and leads to a sunken cheek appearance.

What’s the Difference Between Dentures and Implants?

Dentures

Dentures are prosthetic devices that are constructed to replace missing teeth and are supported by the surrounding soft and hard tissues of the space left by them. Conventional dentures are removable; however, you can also opt for hybrid ones with permanent and removable teeth.

Dental Implants

Dental implants are artificial structures that a dental surgeon puts into your jawbones. With screw-like devices, the surgeon will insert an implant in your jaw that acts as an anchor to the artificial tooth or the crown. Based on the complexity of your case, there are two main types of implants recommended by the American Academy of Implant Dentistry— endosteal and subperiosteal. Unlike dentures, dental implants are fixed in place and fuse naturally with your jawbone, meaning your replacement teeth won’t move, click, or shift.

Which One’s a Better Choice For You?

If you have missing teeth and are planning to get a replacement treatment, here are a few things you should consider while choosing the most appropriate treatment.

You Can Opt For Dentures If

• You are looking for an inexpensive option
• You’re looking for a quick fix treatment that takes up to 6 weeks
• You have weak gums which might not be able to bear implants

Dental Implants are a Viable Option If

• You want a low maintenance solution
• You are looking for a treatment that gives you the most natural results
• You don’t want to deal with special cleaning or frequent replacements or maintenance.

If you are looking for a denture and implant specialist in San Diego, book your appointment with us today!