If you need to replace a tooth or multiple teeth, you might be wondering whether dentures or implants are the best options for you. You’ll likely need to consider numerous factors when making your decision, such as your budget, personal lifestyle, and your healthcare insurance.
While there are some benefits to getting dentures, including affordability and versatility, and dentures are generally covered by most dental care policies, getting implants might be the best long-term option available to you.
Below, we’ll briefly examine some of the reasons why implants may be preferable to dentures if you are seeking to replace lost or decaying teeth.
Longevity
While implants tend to cost more than dentures and may require specialized dental insurance, they also last much longer than dentures. Dentures may be more affordable at the time of treatment and are typically covered by regular dental insurance, but they also have to be replaced far more often than implants, and costs can add up over time.
Most dentures only last for five to 10 years maximum. By contrast, implants will often last for the rest of your life, depending on your age and oral care routine. Implants tend to be more durable and less prone to decay, making them a worthwhile long-term investment.
Comfort
Dentures are made using a mold of your mouth and can be partial (if you’re replacing one tooth or a portion of your teeth) or complete (if you’re replacing an entire row of teeth). Dentures can be slightly more comfortable than implants initially, but dental implants are a much more comfortable alternative in the long run.
This is because unlike dentures, which are not directly connected to your jaw bone and may require an adhesive to stay in place, implants can be treated the same as a regular tooth. Implants are surgically implanted into your jaw bone. This makes implants sturdier and more natural-feeling.
Cosmetic Benefits
There are also cosmetic considerations when deciding between dentures and implants. Dentures are fitted to your jaw, but when you chew or close your mouth, dentures exert pressure on your jaw bone, which can weaken the bone over time. As a result, dentures can even affect your appearance by altering your facial structure. Conversely, dental implants can actually preserve your facial structure by strengthening your jaw bone. That’s because dental implants are designed to permanently replace your lost teeth and are anchored directly into your jaw bone.
Less Maintenance Required
Dental implants can be cared for exactly as you would for regular teeth. Dentures, however, require far more maintenance, and failing to maintain dentures properly can decrease their already short lifespan. Dentures typically need to be placed in a solution overnight, removed and washed after eating and brushed daily using a special denture cleanser.
If you are still undecided, please contact our office and make an appointment with Dr. Mark Knakal today. Dr. Knakal is our periodontist at Babylon Dental, and he has extensive experience helping our patients maintain their periodontal health. Dr. Knakal specializes in tissue and bone grafts and the placement of dental implants. Dr. Knakal can help you better understand the benefits of dental implants and determine which option is best for you.
Reach out today to schedule an appointment!
