When it comes to replacing missing teeth, there are now more options than ever. However, many people are opting for dental implants over traditional dentures.
Dental implants are surgically positioned into the jawbone to eventually fuse with the bone, while dentures rest on the gum surface and are easily removed. Dentures are cheaper, less invasive, and offer quick solutions, but they require more maintenance and may lead to bone loss if used over time. Dental implants provide a range of benefits that improve long-term patient outcomes. Let’s dive in.
How Dental Implants Stack Up Against Dentures
1. Enhanced Comfort and Natural Look
Dental implants are custom-made to fit the patient’s mouth accurately and comfortably, ensuring a natural look and feel. Dentures, however, are removable appliances that can slip or shift, causing discomfort. This can lead to reduced confidence and self-esteem among patients with dentures.
2. Improved Oral Health
Dental implants are surgically positioned into the jawbone, stimulating the bone’s growth and preventing bone loss, which can occur with dentures. With proper care and maintenance, implants can last for many years, whereas dentures typically need to be replaced every five years.
3. Better Functionality for Eating and Speaking
Dental implants function like natural teeth, allowing patients to eat and speak without discomfort or fear of their teeth coming loose. On the other hand, dentures can sometimes limit food choices, as some foods can be challenging to chew.
4. Long-term Cost Savings
Although dental implants can be more expensive initially, they offer long-term cost savings compared to dentures. With proper maintenance and care, implants can last a lifetime, while dentures will require frequent repairs and replacements, which can be costly in the long run.
5. Increased Durability
Dental implants are made of surgical-grade titanium, which is biocompatible and extremely durable. Dentures, which are typically made of acrylic or resin, are more prone to cracks or breaks, making them less durable than implants.
Consider these factors and discuss your options with your dentist to decide the best course of action.
If you are interested in learning more about dental implants, contact Northwest Implant Dental Spa today to set up a free consultation.