Dental Implants vs. Dentures: Everything You Need To Know

There are several options for replacing missing teeth. There are partials, dentures, and dental implants, to name a few. Making a decision isn’t always easy, but getting a proper dental assessment can inform you about what your best options are for restoring your smile. If you think you may be interested in dentures or dental implants, here are some key differences that you should know about so you can ask your dentist the questions that will help you make a more informed decision.
Dental Implants
When looking for solutions to missing teeth, the best dental implants Sandy Ut is a huge help in improving your smile. Dental implants involve titanium screws being affixed to your jawbone and placing a crown (or a false tooth) onto the screw. This is typically a two-surgery procedure done with a local anesthetic. The first procedure places the titanium implant, and the second procedure affixes the crown. The bone must be healed and fused to the implants before the second surgery can take place. If you don’t have enough bone to hold the implant, you may need to have a bone graft or a sinus lift.



Implants look and feel like real teeth and won’t have any negative impact on your speech. You care for them in the same way you would your natural teeth, by brushing, flossing, and regular dental checks. You’ll be able to eat as you normally would, and it can last a lifetime. Implants stay secure and help to prevent bone loss, which will change the shape of your face over time. This option isn’t a great fit for those who smoke, have had radiotherapy to the jaw, and those with uncontrolled diabetes.
Dentures
Dentures are a tried and true solution to tooth loss that has been around for many, many decades. They are removable acrylic or metal pieces that contain false teeth. The teeth are set on a plastic or metal plate that typically rests on top of the gums, but there are implant-supported dentures that attach to dental implants. Getting dentures is a fairly straightforward procedure. Your dentist will take an impression of your mouth and a dental technician will craft dentures that will fit the unique shape of your mouth. Sometimes your dentist will need to remove teeth before you can be fitted for dentures. Dentures take some getting used to, and it’s necessary to practice talking and eating with them before they begin to feel more natural.
Cost
One of the main considerations to make when considering whether or not to get dental implants or dentures is the cost. Because dentures are a less laborious and complex dental solution, they are more economical. But you should be aware that dentures typically need replacing every five to eight years. If you’re interested in partial dentures that are constructed from metal rather than acrylic, you’ll be paying more for a better and longer-lasting material. Dental implants require a complex procedure that has many steps, so it is a more expensive tooth replacement solution. And, the materials used in dental implants are more durable and higher quality, titanium and porcelain or ceramic. Check with your dental insurance provider to learn about your coverage options.



Now that you have a better idea of what these two solutions entail, you’re ready to see your dentist. The options that are best for you, may not be what you want, but knowing your options is a big step towards creating the confident smile of your dreams.

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