Dentures and dental implants in Denton, TX are two of the most popular solutions to replace missing teeth. Dentures and partials are typically geared at replacing multiple teeth, while implants can replace anything from one to all of your teeth. But which option is the best option for you?
What to Know About Dentures
Dentures are made up of a metal and resin base supporting porcelain or plastic false teeth. If it’s a partial, metal clasps keep it in place. For a full arch of dentures, it uses suction to attach to the gums and stay in the mouth. Adhesives are also used to keep the dentures in place if just suction isn’t able to do the trick.
Dentures are the more cost-effective option to replace your teeth because there’s no surgical element. You get your final restoration quicker too because of this. More patients are eligible for dentures than they are for implants. Dental implants require you to have a certain amount of bone density to support the implant. You have to be in good enough health to handle the surgery as well.
However, dentures only give you back around 30% of your bite function. You have to emit certain foods from your diet because you won’t be able to bite down on these foods. Even speaking can cause your dentures to shift or slip when you’re in public. You have to remain vigilant to make sure your dentures stay in.
Dentures don’t replace the tooth root, either. Your jawbone continues to deteriorate over time, which changes the fit of your dentures. They have to be relined or replaced possibly multiple times as your jawbone continues to deteriorate. Extra maintenance is needed as well. You have to take them out to clean them, using special brushes and soaks to get rid of all the adhesive.
The Perks of Dental Implants
Dental implants are made of a titanium post that’s placed in the jaw, an abutment connector piece, and a final restoration. Usually, the final restoration is a dental crown, but implants can also support a fixed bridge or denture. They’re the gold standard of tooth replacement and are always recommended if the patient is eligible.
The downside of dental implants is the price. They’re much more upfront than dentures, but you never have to adjust or replace them over time. They’re the only solution that replaces the tooth root so that the jawbone doesn’t continue to deteriorate. You get a full 100% of your bite function back. You can be confident in your diet and not have to worry about slippage.
Implants require no extra maintenance, either. You just have to brush and floss them like you would with your natural teeth. They look and feel the most natural in your mouth, too. Dentures often feel bulky and take some time to get used to.
Replace Missing Teeth
Do you think one of these solutions is the best choice for your missing teeth? Call us or schedule an appointment online to get started.