Dentures and dental implants are both widely used to replace missing teeth. But which one is the right choice for your particular case? Dr. Brian Sang of Palmetto Smiles highlights the benefits and drawbacks of Florence, SC dental implants and dentures.
Dentures: What to Know
Removable dentures are usually used to replace a full arch of missing teeth, though partial dentures are also available. They’re made up of a metal and resin base that supports plastic or ceramic teeth. Dentures are beneficial because they’re cheaper upfront and you get your final restoration quicker, as implants have a surgical aspect.
However, dentures come with a lot of drawbacks. While they’re cheaper upfront, you tend to incur more costs with them down the line. When you lose teeth, your jawbone starts to deteriorate. Because dentures don’t replace the tooth root, the jawbone continues to deteriorate even with the restoration. Most likely, you’ll need to get your dentures readjusted or replaced so that they stay functional for you.
Dentures also only give you back 30-40% of your bite function. There are certain foods you’ll no longer be able to eat and you risk your dentures slipping or falling out when you’re eating or speaking. Because they’re removable, they require adhesive to stay in and some extra maintenance. You’ll have to take them out at night to thoroughly clean and soak them.
About Dental Implants
Dental implants are often called the gold standard of tooth replacement. They’re made up of three different parts. First, a titanium implant post is placed in the jaw. Next, a piece called an abutment is attached to connect the post to the final restoration. The final restoration is usually a dental crown, but implants can also support a fixed bridge or denture.
One of the biggest drawbacks of dental implants is the price. While they’re pricier upfront, though, you shouldn’t have more costs down the line. This is because dental implants are the only restoration that replaces the tooth root. This stops the jawbone from deteriorating further and can even help to reverse the deterioration that’s already been done.
Implants give you back 100% of your bite function. You don’t have to change your diet at all and don’t have to worry about your restoration slipping or falling out. When the implant posts are placed, it does take 3-6 months for them to fully heal and fuse with your jawbone. However, this process is essential and gives the implants the stability that they’re known for.
Lastly, implants both look and feel the most like natural teeth. Despite advancements in dentistry, dentures are still bulky and require a learning curve to use. Implants don’t have this. They also don’t have any extra maintenance. As long as you brush, floss, and visit the dentist regularly, they’re set for decades to come!
Getting Dental Implants in Florence, South Carolina
Do you think dental implants are the right choice to replace your missing teeth? Call us or schedule an appointment online.