Both dentures and dental implants are popular options for replacing missing teeth. But how do you know which one is the right one for you? Dr. Brian Linton of Linton Dental discusses the benefits and drawbacks of both Peachtree City, GA dental implants and dentures.
Dentures: What to Know
Dentures are most typically used to replace a full arch of missing teeth, but partial dentures are available as well. Dentures are usually made of a resin and metal base that supports plastic or ceramic teeth. Some of the biggest benefits of dentures are that they’re cheaper to get upfront and you can get your final restoration more quickly, due to a lack of a surgical element.
However, there are many drawbacks to dentures as well. While they’re cheaper upfront, you may incur more costs down the line. When you lose teeth, your jawbone starts to deteriorate. Because dentures don’t replace the tooth root, the jawbone continues to deteriorate over time. You’ll have to pay to get your dentures readjusted or replaced when the fit of them renders them unusable due to jaw changes.
Dentures also only give you back 30-40% of your bite function. They require adhesive to stay in the mouth. You may have to eliminate certain foods from your diet because they’re too difficult to eat. You also have the risk of your restoration slipping or falling out when you’re eating or speaking. Due to the adhesive, dentures must be taken out and cleaned thoroughly at night.
The Benefits of Dental Implants
There’s a reason why dental implants are considered the gold standard of tooth replacement. Dental implants are made up of three separate parts. First, a titanium implant post is placed in the jawbone. Next, a piece called an abutment is placed to connect the implant post to the final restoration. Typically, the final restoration is a dental crown. However, implants can also support a fixed bridge or denture.
Dental implants are the only option that replaces the tooth root. Though they’re more expensive upfront, you don’t incur more costs down the line with them. Since they replace the root, it stops the jawbone from deteriorating further. It can also reverse some of the deterioration that’s already taken place.
Due to a surgical element, dental implants take a bit longer. But the 3-6 month healing process for the implant posts is what gives you the stability they’re known for. You get 100% of your bite function back with dental implants. You never have to worry about them slipping or falling out, and there’s no need for adhesive. Foods don’t have to be eliminated from your diet, either.
Even with advancements in technology, dentures are still bulky and require a learning process to learn how to use them. Dental implants both look and feel the most natural. You don’t have any extra maintenance with dental implants either. You just have to brush, floss, and visit the dentist and implants are good for years to come!
Getting Dental Implants in Peachtree City, Georgia
Do dental implants sound like the right option to replace your missing teeth? Call us or schedule an appointment online.