Dental Implants vs. Traditional Dentures: Which One is Right for You?

If you're one of the millions of Americans coping with partial or complete tooth loss, you are probably considering a number of different options for replacing your missing tooth or teeth. Bridges and dentures are among the most common solutions for this problem – but, unfortunately, they have many shortcomings that may give you pause. Ideally, you would be able to replace the teeth you've lost with a brand new natural tooth – and, with dental implants, this dream can become a reality! Unlike traditional dentures, which sit on top of your gums and are attached with an adhesive, dental implants involve placing a lightweight yet durable titanium metal fitting into your jawbone. This fitting then acts as an anchor for customized false teeth that have been created to match your natural teeth perfectly. The result is more attractive, comfortable and functional false teeth than you could ever hope for with standard dentures! Here are some of the benefits of dental implants:

● They look more like natural teeth, so you can count on a more youthful appearance than you could with dentures.

● The fit is both stable and comfortable, thanks to the metal fittings that “anchor” your teeth to your jaw. This allows you to talk, smile and eat without reservation! Your ability to bite and chew will be vastly improved.

● Dental implants are easier to care for than dentures. While dentures involve messy glues, pastes and adhesives, not to mention nightly removal and soaking, implants can be cared for in the same way you would your natural teeth.

● If properly maintained, your dental implants should last you a lifetime. This means that they may never have to be replaced, unlike dentures.

● Since they won't compromise surrounding, healthy teeth, dental implants can also be used for partial tooth replacement, as a more natural and comfortable alternative to bridges.

● Implants may help prevent gum recession and bone loss.

● For patients with minimal bone height who can't wear dentures, subperiosteal dental implants may be used. This type of implant sits under the gums and on top of the jawbone for a sturdy, natural fit with reduced invasiveness.

 

If you're interested in dental implants, ask your dental health professional whether or not you're an ideal candidate for the procedure. Optimal conditions include a healthy mouth and gums, a commitment to good oral hygiene, and enough bone for the implants to anchor properly. Dental implants have shown an astonishing 99% success rate, so if you're ready to reclaim your life and forget the dentures, make an appointment for a consultation with a dental implant specialist, like Dr. Eddie Siman at Millennium Dental, today.