Experiencing tooth loss can take a toll on a person's self-esteem and confidence. But thankfully, dental technology has come a long way in providing solutions to restore a smile. When it comes to replacing missing teeth, two popular options are dental implants and dentures.
Have you ever wondered what are the differences between dental implants and dentures? While both can effectively restore your smile and improve your oral health, there are important differences to consider when deciding which option is right for you.
Dental Implants
Dental implants are a popular choice for those looking for a more permanent and natural-looking solution to missing teeth. The procedure involves surgically placing a titanium post into the jawbone, which serves as a replacement for the tooth root. After a healing period of several months, an abutment and crown are attached to the post to create a functional replacement tooth.
Dental implants offer several advantages over other tooth replacement options. They are durable, long-lasting and look and feel like natural teeth. They also help preserve the structure of your jawbone, which can deteriorate over time if a tooth is missing.
Dentures
Dentures are removable prosthetic devices designed to replace missing teeth. They come in two types: complete dentures, which replace all of the teeth in the upper or lower jaw, and partial dentures, which replace only a few missing teeth.
The process of getting dentures typically involves several appointments with your dentist. First, moulds of your mouth are taken to create a custom-fit denture. Once the denture is made, your dentist will make any necessary adjustments to ensure a comfortable fit.
What Are Some of the Factors to Consider When Deciding between Dental Implants and Dentures?
Cost: Dental implants are generally more expensive than dentures, although the cost can vary depending on each individual case.
Maintenance: Dental implants require regular maintenance, including daily brushing and flossing and regular dental check-ups. Dentures also require regular cleaning and maintenance, but may need to be replaced or adjusted over time.
Comfort: While both options may take some time to adjust to, dental implants tend to feel more natural and comfortable than dentures.
Oral Health: Dental implants help preserve the structure of the jawbone, while dentures may contribute to bone loss over time.
The decision between dental implants and dentures should be based on your individual needs and preferences. Both dental implants and dentures offer effective options for replacing missing teeth. While dental implants are generally more expensive and require more maintenance, they offer a more natural-looking and long-lasting solution. Dentures, on the other hand, may be more affordable and easier to adjust to, but may require more maintenance and contribute to bone loss over time.