If you’re missing most or all of their teeth, you have a big decision to make – one that impacts you for the rest of your life. Do you try to just live with missing teeth, or do you choose a solution like traditional dentures or dental implants?
For starters, you probably don’t want to do the former. Missing teeth can cause all kinds of problems, such as sensitivity, shifting teeth, deteriorating jawbone and increased wrinkles. It wreaks havoc on your lifestyle and is also not as cost effective as you think, usually requiring an investment down the road via medical bills and/or additional dental procedures.
Now that we’ve established that replacing missing teeth is the best option, which specific one is best for you? A basic comparison is a great way to get started and gives you great information to take into a consultation with your dentist.
Dental Implants Vs. Dentures
• Facial structure – Since traditional dentures aren’t connected to your jawbone, there’s nothing to stimulate bone growth, which means your facial structure will slowly collapse over time. (This causes wrinkles in addition to other things.) Dental implants feature artificial roots that maintain bone stimulation and lessening wrinkles.
• Function – Say goodbye to hard foots like nuts and sticky foods like candy if you go with traditional dentures. They come with several diet restrictions, whereas dental implants let you eat whatever you want.
• Fit – Traditional dentures are notorious for feeling uncomfortable and slipping at times, which causes some embarrassing situations. Dental implants are securely connected to your jawbone, giving you peace of mind and comfort.
• Convenience – People who wear traditional dentures have to deal with things like dental paste and cleaning solutions, while people with dental implants can care for them like they were natural teeth.
• Durability – Traditional dentures are temporary, meaning they have to be replaced every few years or so. They also often have to be reshaped to maintain a proper fit. Dental implants, on the other hand, last a lifetime and don’t need to be adjusted.
• Cost – Traditional dentures are usually a more affordable option, even if you have to replace them multiple times. But the benefits of dental implants and their initial investment are well worth it in the long run. Best of all, there are flexible payment plans and other options.
• Looks – In the end, you can usually tell if someone is wearing traditional dentures, as they have a fake look to them. Dental implants are custom-made to replicate your natural teeth, meaning people won’t be able to tell you have them.
Dr. Staples has helped thousands of patients smile confidently again and ditch their old, removable dentures. Call today for your complimentary consult. Eat, chew and talk with confidence again.