Dentures or Dental Implants? Which Is Right for You?
If you are missing one or more teeth, you may be trying to decide what to do. Some people choose to do nothing, but this option can cause your remaining teeth to shift and can cause additional dental problems down the line. If you do decide to repair your smile, you may be torn between dentures and dental implants.
Dentures
Dentures are a mainstay in dentistry. These replacements for missing teeth come in various forms with the main distinction being full (or complete) dentures and partial dentures. Dentures can be placed over the gums (for full dentures), attached to a metal framework, or affixed to a crown (as a bridge).
Dental Implants
Dental implants are metal posts that are inserted into the jaw. Once the jaw heals, restorations, including dental crowns, are attached to the post, giving the appearance of natural teeth.
Things to Consider When Deciding
There are pros and cons to getting either dentures or dental implants. When deciding between the two options, you should consider:
- Comfort – Dentures have been known to slide or click when eating or speaking, but dental implants are a more permanent fixture in your mouth. Many users prefer the permanence and comfort of dental implants over dentures.
- Compatibility – Not everyone is a good candidate for dental implants. For example, people who grind teeth may not be eligible for dental implants.
- Cost – Dentures are much less expensive than dental implants.
- Fear of surgery – Dental implants require surgery (to insert the implant into the jaw).
- Jaw structure – Dentures may cause disintegration of bone material, but dental implants tend to promote jaw bone growth.
- Support – Dental implants tend to give better support for biting and chewing.
- Time – The placement of dental implants is more time consuming than dentures. The entire implant process can take up to six months.
To better understand which choice is right for you, be sure to speak with a dentist with implant dentistry experience.