If you have missing teeth, it might make you feel like frowning instead of smiling. And we get it. Missing teeth harm our oral health and can definitely impact our willingness to smile. And when you think about suitable dental restoration options, it can feel overwhelming. We understand, and we have outlined some information below that can help you consider your options, specifically implants vs. dentures. Read on to be more informed at your next dental visit.

Implants vs. dentures: What choice should I make?

If you are missing teeth or need a permanent tooth extracted, you have several tooth replacement options to consider. Losing a tooth due to disease or injury can lead to complications such as altered speech, bone loss, and changes in chewing patterns that can lead to jaw pain. Replacing your missing tooth or teeth with a dental implant or dentures can improve not only your oral health and physical health but your mental health as well. 

We understand that this type of decision is a big deal. Dr. Garcia at Parmer Lane Family Dentistry can not only help you make the best decision for your specific situation but can also help you look and feel natural again. By understanding the various pros and cons of implants vs. dentures, you can make a well-informed decision. Here’s what you need to know.

The Pros and Cons of Dental Implants 

Dental implants are a restorative dentistry treatment. Implants are medical devices that your dentist or oral surgeon implants surgically into your jaw to restore your ability to chew, speak, and more. Dental implants are necessary for patients with missing teeth to support dentures, crowns, and bridges.

Patients who opt for dental implants vs. bridges or dentures often experience the following benefits.

• When patients practice an excellent oral care routine at home and visit their dentist every six months for a professional dental cleaning and oral evaluation, their implants can last a lifetime.
• Implants look, feel, and function just like your natural teeth; this means that your mouth will feel healthy again.
• While the cost of dental implants may be higher up front than other options, it is actually the most cost-effective tooth replacement option for tooth loss and missing teeth.
• With dental implants, you can replace one, multiple, or all of your teeth.
• Dental implants improve your facial appearance and give you a more youthful look.

There are still some perceived cons when it comes to electing dental implants vs. dentures. Those potential cons are as follows.

• The restoration on top of your dental implant can wear out over time, requiring replacement.
• You need to have adequate bone remaining to support your dental implants.
• The upfront cost for dental implants is more than other tooth replacement options.
• The dental implant process can be time consuming, often requiring multiple appointments over the course of six or more months.

The Pros and Cons of Dentures

Patients experiencing missing teeth have turned to dentures for centuries as a way to replace their smile and protect their oral health. There are also several varieties of dentures, including full dentures, partial dentures, implant-supported dentures, upper dentures, overdentures, and more, making them a quick and easy solution for many patients. As with any restorative dentistry treatment, there are also advantages and disadvantages that patients should consider when making their decision.

If you are considering dentures, here are the benefits you can expect.

• Getting dentures is a quick and easy process—most patients can be fitted and go home with their new dentures in as little as two weeks.
• After your preliminary adjustment period, you can expect that your dentures will look and feel just like your natural teeth.
• Dentures are a great way to provide additional support to a weak or otherwise sagging jaw.
• Dentures are one of the more affordable restorative dentistry treatment options.
• Just as with dental implants, dentures will improve your facial appearance and make you look younger.
• Dentures make it easier to eat, and after your adjustment period, you can even eat foods like apples and nuts.

As with anything, there are potential cons to be aware of.

• You should plan for an adjustment period as you get used to your new dentures—it will take some time to be able to eat and speak naturally.
• Dentures are not permanent and need to be replaced every five to eight years.
• Dentures require additional care and cleaning—if you fail to clean your dentures properly, it can lead to residual deposits on your dentures that can impact taste and cause bad breath.
• Some patients experience an allergic reaction to their dentures.
• Dentures can cause infection if they are not fitted properly and may require refitting over time.
• Even though they are designed to fit, dentures can slip, causing embarrassing situations.

Need help deciding on implants vs. dentures? Request an appointment with Parmer Lane Family Dentistry today.

If you are considering your various tooth replacement options, we know that it is a big decision. And, it isn’t a decision you should make alone. Dr. Garcia at Parmer Lane Family Dentistry can help provide you with the information you need to make a well-informed decision. So what are you waiting for? Take charge of your oral health today by requesting an appointment. We look forward to helping you smile again.