Dentures vs Implants – What’s The Best Tooth Replacement For You?

If you need to replace missing teeth, the debate about whether dentures vs implants are better depends on what works best for you as an individual. When it comes to a permanent tooth replacement that could last for as long as your natural teeth, there is currently nothing to rival dental implants. A dentist that offers consultation can assess your mouth and determine the best treatment for you. Let’s take a look at both dentures and implants and see which circumstances may necessitate each tooth replacement.

What Are Dentures?

Dentures are removable replacements for missing teeth. Often referred to as false teeth, dentures can be full (if you are missing an entire arch of teeth) or partial.

What Are Dental Implants?

Dental implants are metal screws that are surgically embedded into your jaw bone, and they perform the job of replacing missing tooth roots. Once the dental implant has Osseointegrated with your jaw (this process usually takes a couple of months), you have an extension or abutment connected, and then have a crown fitted over the top.

If you have been missing teeth for some time it’s also highly likely for you to have experienced some degree of bone loss, and you may require a bone graft. If you only need a minor bone graft, this mini procedure can be done prior to the placement of your dental implant. In the event that you need a major bone graft, it would need to be accommodated as a separate procedure, and will also require its own period of healing.

What Are The Benefits Of Dental Implants Vs Dentures?

Both implants and dentures can restore facial harmony and symmetry, and close the gap left by a missing tooth.

Implants offer permanent tooth replacement

Dental implants are permanent tooth replacements, which means they can’t be taken out of your mouth for eating and drinking.

This makes them more comfortable to wear, and the wearer feels more confident that they won’t move around or slip when talking and eating.

Dental implants prevent further bone loss

Because they replace tooth roots, dental implants can prevent further bone loss from occurring. By contrast, dentures sit above the gum line and only provide an aesthetic tooth replacement so bone loss and shrinkage can be expected in time.

Implants provide the closest alternative to natural teeth

Implants look and function just like your other teeth, and they can withstand the forces of biting and chewing. This means you don’t need to change or restrict your deity like you might need to do if you opt for dentures.

Dentures will need to be replaced

If you opt for dentures next week it’s highly likely you will need to have them replaced in a few years. With good dental care, implants can last for the rest of your lifetime. When you wear dentures there is always the risk of irritation occurring between the denture and gum line, as well as an infection developing if the proper dental hygiene standards are not maintained.

Dentures require special care and maintenance

Your dentures must be cleaned as directed every night, and require some additional care. Dental implants need to be brushed, flossed and checked on by your dentist every six months, and so are much simpler to manage.

Dental Implants vs Dentures: What’s The Most Convenient Tooth Replacement?

Are dentures vs implants best for you? If a permanent tooth replacement that requires the same level of care and maintenance as your natural teeth appeals to you, then a dental implant is probably a good idea. If you want to replace your missing tooth at the root and not experience further jaw bone deterioration, a tooth implant would be a better option. You won’t have to change your diet and feel self-conscious about your dental implant because other people won’t be able to discern it from the rest of your natural teeth.

Still Wondering If Dental Implants Vs Dentures Is The Option For You?

Remember that tooth implants don’t get done overnight, and are segmented into stages, after which you need some time for healing and recuperation. If you need to have a tooth extracted, it is worthwhile discussing having the implant done immediately with your dental practitioner, to prevent any potential bone loss and the need for bone grafting.

Choosing the right kind of tooth replacement is a decision best reached in consultation with your dental professional, and needs to take your personal circumstances into account. For professional advice on whether dentures vs implants offer you the best tooth replacement, please get in touch with our practice to schedule your consultation: (02) 8203 8760.