Maintaining a full set of teeth is important for eating a complete diet, being able to smile with confidence and sustaining the jawbone density necessary to support your facial structure. Thankfully, if you’re missing teeth, you have two options for rebuilding your smile: dentures or dental implants. Which method of replacement is better suited to meet your needs? Continue reading for a comparison of the two procedures so you can move ahead with achieving a healthy and fully functional smile.
Dentures
A set of dentures consists of porcelain prosthetic teeth that are affixed to a pink resin base. The dentures are constructed through a tedious process of fittings and mold fabrication that help the dentist and patient arrive at the best replacement possible. A set of properly fitting dentures will rest snugly against the gums and will typically only require the natural suction created inside the mouth to secure them.
With dentures, you can expect to regain up to 30% of your original chewing capacity. Thus, you can expect to have some dietary limitations. However, you’ll experience more longevity by avoiding harder foods and only taking small bites. With proper care, dentures can last up to 10 years.
Dental Implants
If you’re looking for a sturdier replacement option, then you may want to consider dental implants. They are constructed from high grade titanium to provide the utmost in durability and longevity. Unlike dentures, implants are surgically inserted beneath the gumline and into the jawbone. Over a series of months, they fuse with the bone through what is called osseointegration.
After a successful fusion, abutments are added, which allow implant-retained dentures to be securely attached. This leaves you with a strong and natural looking set of teeth, and it restores up to 95% of your original chewing power.
Which Method Should You Choose?
Deciding between dentures and dental implants will come down to the following factors:
- Your time sensitivity – If treatment time is a big concern of yours, then you may consider denture fabrication, as it’s typically a swifter process.
- Your jawbone density – To be eligible for implants, you must have adequate jawbone mass to support the titanium posts.
- Your desire for smile aesthetics – If you’re looking to achieve the most natural appearance possible, then implants are unmatched, because they are placed beneath the gum line just like the roots of your teeth.
- Your budget – Usually, dental insurance holders will cover denture placement. However, your out-of-pocket cost may be higher with the dental implant procedure. To find out for sure, you’ll need to review the details of your plan.
Whether you choose dentures or dental implants, what’s most important is that you take action to replace your missing teeth. Therefore, you can avoid further problems and experience a reinvigorated life!
About the Author
Dr. Kimber Holmes earned her dental degree from the University of Texas Dental Branch in Houston. Throughout a career that has spanned over 20 years, she has become known for providing compassionate and precise care. During the COVID-19 crisis, Dr. Holmes has placed all non-emergent procedures on hold in accordance with state and federal guidelines. But as soon as Texas opens up, she’ll be available to replace your missing teeth with dentures or dental implants at Pasadena Family Dentistry. She can be reached for more information through her website.