Who Wins When Comparing Dental Implants vs. Dentures?
Losing some or all permanent natural teeth- whether due to gum disease, injury, or decay- is very distressful, they might need to be replaced. Restoring the missing teeth will help one chew, improve one’s looks by preventing the mouth from drooping, and likely boost one’s confidence and esteem as well. To accomplish this, dental implants vs. dentures are the dental restoration options that dental professionals can perform.
But, which one is the better and right choice? Is it true that dental implants procedure are more sought-after than dentures? It is important to remember that every patient is unique, which is why it is recommended to request an initial consultation with the dentist. Dentists will help one explore tooth replacement options so that one knows what to expect.
This blog talks about everything that one needs to know about dental implants vs. dentures so that one knows which one is best suited for them.
What are Dentures?
Dentures are removable artificial teeth appliances that sit directly on the gums and can help replace both lost teeth and even some of the gum tissues. They are made up of a pink gum-colored acrylic base supporting the fake teeth. For extra strength and support, a lightweight metal framework might be included in some dentures. They come in two forms: Traditional and Immediate. If all teeth in both or either of the dental arches are to be replaced, complete dentures are recommended to people while partial dentures are recommended to fill in gaps, when some of the real teeth remain. The partial dentures are supported by metal clasps around the existing natural teeth. They may even be connected with precision attachments that are fitted onto the crowns.
What are Dental Implants?
A dental implant is a titanium post, cylindrical or screw-shaped that is usually inserted into the jawbone of the missing tooth- the endosteal implant or sometimes onto the top of the jawbone beneath the gums- the subperiosteal implant. It replicates the root of a natural tooth and can help restore the entire missing tooth structure for a lifetime. The implant post strongly bonds with the jawbone, hence creating an anchor or a stable, strong foundation for the replacement tooth.
Dental implants can be used to restore single or multiple missing teeth, supporting dental crowns, bridgework, or even dentures. The implants closely resemble the natural teeth in feel, function, and look. They require the same care and maintenance as natural teeth. Additionally, the implants can help preserve the natural jawbone and avoid the sunken facial appearance often seen in patients with missing teeth.
Dental Implants vs. Dentures – Know Which is Better?
Many patients appreciate dental implants over dentures. They are referred to as the gold standard teeth replacement, far superior to dentures. Here is what makes dental implants a much better approach to replacing teeth.
Dental implants will never fall out- Dentures sit on the gums and are held by suction. They are generally removable. If they do not fit perfectly inside the mouth, they could easily slide around the mouth, get dislodged, and fall out of the mouth while talking or laughing, or are likely to hit together and get easily damaged. Dental implants are secured inside the mouth as they are bonded to the jawbone, just like natural teeth.
Enjoy easy care and maintenance- Dentures need special care and maintenance. They must be brushed every night before bed and soaked in water overnight, brushed after every meal, and the gums under the dentures also need to be kept clean. With dental implants, all the daily oral hygiene practices, as carried out for natural teeth, need to be done.
No food restrictions- Denture wearers have to give up many of their favorite foods, like those that are hard, very chewy, and sticky. However, people who have dental implants can enjoy all kinds of food that they could eat with a complete set of healthy natural teeth.
Look youthful for longer- As one gets older, the volume in the teeth and jawbone gets lost and dentures can facilitate this process. Dentures cannot help preserve the natural jawbone and result in a sagging or sunken lower face. Dental implants stimulate the jawbone so that there is no bone resorption, which is responsible for the appearance of sagging skin, wrinkles, and other premature aging signs on the face.
A lifetime solution- Dental implants can last for many years and maybe lifelong, with only minor repairs and adjustments while dentures wear out fairly quickly. Although dentures are more affordable than dental implants in the long term, dental implants are much more cost-effective than dentures.
Get a more natural-looking smile- As compared to a cheap traditional denture, implant-supported dentures will best complement one’s face and smile. It will look entirely natural, perfect for one’s facial shape.
No pain or discomfort- Typically, dentures apply pressure to the gums when one chews. However, if one supports their dentures or bridges with implants, the pressure gets placed onto the jawbone while chewing, just like it happens with natural teeth. As a result, one can have a pain-free experience every day after getting implants and enjoy a better life quality.
Amazing Facts About Dental Implants vs. Dentures:
Dentures are less expensive than dental implants, but they do not solve the problem of jawbone loss. As soon as your body detects a tooth loss, it will begin to absorb the minerals from your jaw for use somewhere else.
Once this occurs, the area of the jaw where the tooth root once was becomes weakened and degrades. Additionally, teeth adjacent to the gap will begin to tilt towards the void. The patient may eventually experience facial collapse, which changes the shape of the face and makes wearing dentures complicated.
Asking our dentist if you are a candidate for the dental implant procedure is the best way to prevent further tooth loss and jawbone degeneration. In general, we suggest dental implants whenever possible so that patients can avoid the long health complications caused by tooth loss.To know which option is best for you for missing teeth, consult now the best dentist in Chicago only at First Point Dental Clinics.