Dentures have been used for centuries to replace missing teeth. While dentures are effective, they can often be uncomfortable and challenging to keep in place. Dental implants are the most natural way to replace missing teeth, providing several benefits over fake dentures.
You can benefit from dental implants if you are missing one or more teeth. Dental implant options offer a permanent solution that is comfortable and natural looking. Learn about the dental implant procedure and discover if dental implants might just be the better option for you.
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are a safe, strong, and permanent solution to missing teeth. They are titanium posts that are surgically placed into the jawbone to act as a replacement for the roots of your natural teeth. Once in place, dental implants can support a single tooth crown, a dental bridge, or even dentures.
Dental implants are the only tooth replacement option that preserves and strengthens the jawbone. The titanium post fuses with the bone, creating a bond that is stronger than the original root.
There are two main types of dental implants: subperiosteal implants and endosteal implants. Endosteal implants are embedded directly into the jawbone. However, subperiosteal implants are placed in the gum tissue above the jawbone. Subperiosteal implants are typically only used for patients with insufficient jawbone density who cannot receive a bone graft.
What Are Dentures?
Dentures are artificial sets of teeth that replace natural teeth. They are usually made of porcelain or acrylic and are held in place by a metal frame. Removable dentures can be either partial or complete, depending on how many teeth need to be replaced.
They are custom-made to match the shape and color of your natural teeth. They can also be designed to improve your smile or correct minor dental imperfections.
Dentures are generally removable, but there are also fixed options available. Fixed dentures are attached to the jawbone with implants and cannot be removed.
Why Get Dental Implants Instead of Dentures?
While dentures are an effective tooth replacement option, many people choose to get dental implants instead of dentures for various reasons, including:
A More Natural Look
Dental implants are made of titanium, a strong and biocompatible material. It also provides a firm foundation for the new tooth. The implant is then topped with a natural-looking porcelain crown. Porcelain has a similar natural translucency to tooth enamel, giving you a realistic tooth replacement that blends in with your smile.
Dental implants can give you a much more natural-looking smile than dentures. They’re also much more comfortable and stable than dentures, so you can eat and speak with confidence.
Maintain Same Diet
Unlike dentures, which can slip and click when you eat, dental implants are securely anchored in your jawbone. This means you can enjoy all your favorite foods without worrying about your teeth becoming loose.
Dental implants are also much easier to clean than dentures and don’t require special creams or adhesives.
No Speech Impediments
Dentures do not stimulate the jawbone underneath, leading to bone resorption. This can cause the dentures to slip out of place, leading to trouble speaking. Dental implants, implant-supported bridges, and fixed dentures improve your jawbone health and remain in place. They also do not impact the soft palate, allowing you to speak clearly.
Durability
Dental implants are placed in the jawbone and fuse with the bone over time. This provides a strong and stable foundation for replacement teeth. In contrast, dentures are supported by the gums and rely on natural suction or an adhesive to stay in place. Over time, the gums can change shape, reducing the fit of dentures and making them more likely to slip.
Dentures can also press on the gums and cause irritation. Dental implants can last a lifetime with regular care and good oral hygiene, while dentures must be replaced every five to seven years. Dental implants are often a better long-term investment for people needing tooth replacements.
Better for the Health of Your Jawbone
Dentures can accelerate bone loss in the jaw since they don’t provide any support for the bone. Dental implants help prevent jawbone tissue loss and keep gum tissue healthy. After a tooth extraction, the surrounding bone begins to shrink. This can eventually lead to a change in facial shape and increase the risk of tooth loss and gum disease.
Dental implants preserve the bone in your jaw by providing it with stimulation and support. They can help to keep the face looking young and healthy.
High Success Rate
Although implant dentistry has some potential complications such as infection or temporary nerve damage, dental implant surgery has a high success rate, with up to 95% of dental implants surviving more than 10 years.
For Quality Dental Care, Visit Owens Cosmetic and Family Dentistry
If you are missing one or more teeth, visit Owens Cosmetic and Family Dentistry for a consultation. We use state-of-the-art technology, including digital X-rays and an intraoral camera, to determine if you are a good candidate for dental implants.
Our team of experienced dentists and dental hygienists will work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan that meets your individual needs. We also offer a range of treatment options for people ineligible for dental implants, such as dentures and bridges. Contact us today at (248) 626-0772 to schedule an appointment.