Both dental implants and dentures are popular choices to replace missing teeth. But how do you know the best choice for your particular case? Dr. Greg Reece of Dentistry of the Queen City discusses getting dentures and dental implants in Charlotte, NC.
Dentures: What to Know
Dentures are most likely used to replace an entire arch of missing teeth. But partial dentures to replace fewer teeth are also an option. Dentures are made of a metal and resin base that supports either plastic or ceramic teeth. Some of the benefits of dentures include their cost being cheaper upfront, and you can get your final restoration more quickly than with implants.
However, dentures come with many downsides. When you lose teeth, the jawbone deteriorates in that area. Because dentures don’t replace the tooth root, the jawbone will continue to deteriorate. This causes the dentures to start to fit uncomfortably and improperly. They’ll need to be readjusted or replaced down the line, possibly multiple times.
Dentures only give you 30-40% of your bite function. This means that certain foods will have to be removed from your diet. Because they’re removable, dentures need adhesive to stay in the mouth and removed every night to be cleaned properly. If the adhesive doesn’t work properly, the dentures may slip or fall out while you’re speaking or eating.
The Benefits of Dental Implants
Dental implants are the gold standard for replacing lost teeth. There are many benefits to getting dental implants. Implants are the gold standard because they’re the only option that replaces the tooth root. Because a surgical element is needed, they cost more upfront and take longer to get the final restoration.
But because they replace the tooth root, they’re worth it. Implants stop the jawbone deterioration that happens when you lose teeth. It can also help reverse it because the jawbone fuses with the implant post.
Since they fuse with the jawbone, you get back 100% of your bite function. You also don’t need to get your implants replaced or readjusted. They don’t require adhesive or anything extra to stay in and are considered a lifetime restoration. No foods must be removed from your diet, and you can speak and eat confidently.
Implants are the most natural-looking and feeling replacement. Even with progress in dentistry, dentures can be bulky and take a learning curve to get used to. That doesn’t happen with implants. They only need to be taken care of like you would your natural teeth. Brush, floss, and visit the dentist regularly and you’ll have a solid restoration for decades to come!
Do you think dental implants are the right choice to replace your missing teeth? Get dental implants in Charlotte, North Carolina by calling us or schedule a consultation online.