Both dentures and dental implants have been popular methods to replace missing teeth. But which one is the right choice for you? Dr. Dhara Patel of Best Dental Spa discusses the benefits and downsides of both dentures and dental implants in Hoffman Estates, IL.
What to Know About Dentures
Dentures are usually used to replace a full arch of missing teeth, but partial dentures are available as well. They’re made of a resin and metal base that supports teeth made of plastic or dental ceramic. Benefits of dentures include that they’re a restoration that can be done quicker and at a lower cost than dental implants.
However, dentures do come with multiple downsides to consider. While they don’t cost much upfront, they incur more costs down the line. When you’re missing teeth, the jawbone in these areas deteriorates. Because dentures don’t replace the tooth root, the jawbone will continue to deteriorate over time. You’ll need to get your dentures readjusted or replaced once this reaches a certain point.
Dentures also only give you back around 30-40% of your bite function. They’re held in your mouth with adhesive. Certain foods will have to be removed from your diet and your dentures can slip or fall out while eating or speaking. Because they’re removable, they have to be removed each evening for a thorough cleaning.
The Benefits of Dental Implants
Dental implants are often considered the gold standard of tooth replacement options. Implants are made up of three separate parts. First, a titanium post is placed in the jawbone. Next, a piece called an abutment is attached to connect the post to the final restoration. Dental crowns are usually used as the final restoration, but dental implants can also support a fixed bridge or denture.
While dental implants are more expensive upfront, they don’t incur costs down the line. This is because this is the only tooth replacement option that replaces the tooth root as well. This prevents further degeneration of the jawbone and can help reverse the deterioration that’s already taken place. Dental implants take longer because they have this surgical component that takes 3-6 months to heal
Dental implants take longer because the posts have to fuse with your jawbone. This gives implants the stability they’re known for. You get back 100% of your bite function with dental implants. Your diet doesn’t need to be changed and you don’t have to worry about them slipping or falling out. Adhesive isn’t required to keep them in place.
Implants also have the added benefit of feeling and looking the most natural, particularly with a dental crown as your restoration. Dentures, even with advances in dental technology, can be bulky and take a learning curve to get used to. With implants, you don’t have that problem. Since they’re a fixed restoration, you also only have to brush, floss, and visit the dentist regularly like you would with natural teeth.
Getting Dental Implants in Hoffman Estates, Illinois
Can dental implants provide the solution for your missing teeth? Call us or schedule an appointment online.
