Dental implants and dentures are ideal for restoring smiles by replacing missing teeth. However, the best choice depends on your situation. Dentures and implants have their own benefits and disadvantages, so exploring your options with a dentist is essential.
Let’s look at some of the differences between dentures and dental implants.
Dental implants are small titanium posts surgically implanted in your jawbone. It is an excellent replacement for a missing tooth and is commonly regarded as today’s high-end tooth replacement solution.
Since the implant is placed on your jawbone, it is a replacement that appears like your natural root. Once you give the implant adequate time to heal, you can choose a dental crown, partial or complete denture, or a part of a bridge to replace several teeth.
It is essential to understand that implants are not for everyone, although they are typically the most preferred treatment. Implants require the jawbone to be in good condition. You may not be a good implant candidate if you have experienced bone loss. There are jawbone treatment methods, so all hope is not lost.
Dentures are prosthetic teeth that can be fitted in your mouth regardless of your bone’s condition. A denture can be a complete set used to replace teeth on the lower or upper jaws or be created to replace a few teeth. These are referred to as partial dentures.
During the procedure, the dentist first takes an impression of the lower or upper gums or both if you need to replace all teeth. Before the dentures are created, the dentist will study your bite and lower and upper jaw alignment to ensure your dentures make room for optimal speech and chewing.
The dentist then makes preliminary dentures fabricated in a laboratory and sent to the dentist. The dentures will then be placed in your mouth, and other adjustments to the length or alignment of the teeth will be made before the final set of dentures is made.
Like implants, dentures are fabricated to appear like natural teeth and gums and are held together with a unique adhesive that blends them into your gums.
Maintaining dental implants is similar to preserving natural teeth. It involves brushing with a soft bristle brush at least twice daily, having regular checkups, and flossing regularly. For your dentures to remain functional, more care is required. For instance, you should remove your dentures at night and soak them in water or a cleaning solution.
To keep your dentures clean, you need to brush them after eating. It would be best if you also considered brushing any adhesive lingering on your gums frequently.
If you are unsure whether to get dentures or a dental implant in Shorewood, the Acacia Dental Care, LLC team can provide a solution. If you are a good candidate, we will offer the premium care you need to maintain an attractive smile. Contact us today to schedule your appointment with Dr. Brookes.
