Our oral health changes over time. For instance, your gums may have receded to the point of tooth loss. There are solutions out there to correct your smile and help keep your mouth healthy. When it comes to choosing between dentures or dental implants, you may have no idea where to start. Finding the information or recommendations from trusted sources and consulting your dentist is a good start. Here are some things you should know about the differences between dentures and dental implants.
Dentures – What Are My Options?
Dentures are a removable replacement for missing teeth and the surrounding tissues. There are three different types of dentures that have been the standard over the years for tooth replacement: partial, full, or overdentures.
- Partial Dentures – these are for people with a few scattered missing teeth. Partial dentures have prosthetic teeth and gums colored to blend in and attach to surrounding teeth.
- Full Dentures – these are the same as the partial dentures, except they are a full replacement for upper and/or lower teeth.
- Overdentures – these are a newer alternative using dental implant technology to create a base for an overdenture to sit upon. This offers an option with less adhesion, which equals less maintenance for you.
Dentures offer the benefit of tooth replacement, but there is maintenance involved, cost over time, and a likely need for replacement. Overdentures are generally the most recommended option if dentures are part of your plan.
Dental Implants – A Brighter Alternative
Dental implants are the most innovative choice in tooth replacement, but there are some things to keep in mind. You must be in good oral health and enough of a healthy jawbone to support a dental implant. Prior to the procedure, your dentist should have a consultation with you to make sure you are a viable candidate.
The dental implant is an artificial tooth ‘root’ to secure a tooth replacement or support a bridge or dentures. Dental implants are the preferred tooth replacement solution because of their durability and low maintenance. The cost can be in the range of $3,000 to $5,000, however. A growing number of dental insurance plans are beginning to cover partial costs of a dental implant procedure.
There are long-term benefits to dental implants when compared to dentures. When taken care of properly, a dental implant can last for decades. Dental implants do not require additional supplies such as adhesives, and tend to require less professional maintenance than dentures. Dental implants tend to appear more natural than dentures, since the dental implant is placed directly into your jawbone. The tooth implant piece is also tailored to your mouth through a customized mold. Learn more about the dental implant process here.
When it comes to finding your tooth replacement solution, it really is a case-by-case decision. The state of your oral health, costs, convenience, and your dentists’ input are all important factors when making your choice. Feel free to contact us to begin the consultation process.
