Unlike in the past, people looking to replace their missing teeth have two great options to choose from: dental implants or dentures. Both of these options will help you to restore your natural smile, thus boosting your self-confidence. But since both are reliable options, most patients have trouble deciding which one to go for.
In this article, we will be sharing the pros and cons of each option. But first, let’s understand the difference between dental implants and dentures.
What Are Dental Implants
Dental implants are permanent teeth replacements consisting of metal posts and artificial teeth (crowns). The metal posts are surgically placed in the jawbone to serve as the missing root portions. These implants are designed to match your natural teeth.
What Are Dentures
Dentures are removable replacements for missing teeth. They consist of a flesh-colored acrylic base and artificial teeth. The base is designed to cover the upper and lower palates snugly with no discomfort. Dentures are usually custom-made in the lab using impressions of your mouth. They can be full or partial, depending on the number of missing teeth.
Benefits of Dental Implants
Dental implants are designed to permanently replace your missing teeth, allowing you to go on with your life without interruptions. So, you can eat your favorite food, laugh, and talk with no discomfort. They also improve your overall health by enabling you to chew food properly for better uptake of essential nutrients.
Since dental implants function like natural teeth, they promote your jawbone’s regular stimulation, keeping it strong and healthy. They also maintain the natural profile of your facial edifice and jawbone. And because they are permanently attached to your jawbone, dental implants are easy to maintain.
Drawbacks of Dental Implants
Compared to dentures, dental implants cost more to set up. Also, not every patient is a good candidate for implants because they require healthy gums and jawbones. Although your dentist can do bone grafting, it will further increase the cost.
Benefits of Dentures
In terms of price, dentures are more affordable than dental implants. They are also suitable for a broader range of patients, even those with bone and gum problems. Dentures don’t have downtime because their placement is entirely noninvasive. Moreover, they can be placed in a single visit to the dentist.
Drawbacks of Dentures
Dentures require regular adjustments as the structure of your jaw changes with age. They also feel uncomfortable, especially during the first days of wearing them. You might also experience excess salivation. They require daily care to prevent infections around the gums.