When patients are missing teeth, deciding which tooth replacement method to go with is essential. The two main options for these types of patients are dental implants and dentures. Dentures are less expensive and less invasive, but in truth, these are the only real benefits dentures have over dental implants. We will take a look at why dental implants are the far superior option below.
Dental Implants Prevent Bone Loss
One of the most important advantages dental implants have over dentures is that they help preserve the jawbone. Because the implants are placed deep in the jaw (like a natural tooth root), this provides stimulation to the tissue, preventing it from breaking down.
Dentures, on the other hand, simply sit on top of the gums. This means they provide no stimulation to the jawbone, so it will begin to deteriorate over time. Within a couple of years, the patient might notice drastic changes to their facial profile because of this bone loss.
Dental Implants Look and Function Like Real Teeth
When properly placed, dental implants look just like real teeth. They fit snugly in the mouth and can be used to chew most food. Because they are implanted in the jaw and covered with gum tissue, eating will feel similar to eating with real teeth.
Dentures, on the other hand, look less than natural, and the imitation gum that goes over the real gum is not as realistic. Furthermore, eating and chewing are a lot harder for patients as they may also have to limit hard or crunchy foods, in order to not break their dentures.
Dental Implants Are Easy to Clean
Dental implants are easy to clean and can be treated like normal teeth. Patients need only to brush and floss regularly to keep them in good shape.
Cleaning dentures require additional steps, such as removing them from the mouth and soaking them in a special solution. This can leave patients with an embarrassing gummy smile for a few minutes. Placing dentures back in the mouth requires the use of creams and adhesives, which can be a hassle.
Dental Implants Last Longer
Dental implants can last for years longer than dentures. With proper care, many patients will find that their implants can last a lifetime.
Unfortunately, dentures just do not have the same longevity. Even with proper care and cleaning, eventually, dentures will cease to fit because of changes in the jawbone. Patients will notice this is happening because the dentures will start slipping or sliding in the mouth. At this point, the only option is to have the dentures remade.
Learn More About Dental Implants in the Salt Lake and Utah County Area
Dental implants have a higher sticker price than dentures upfront. However, when considering how many times a patient will need to have their dentures remade throughout their lifetime, dental implants quickly become the better financial option. They are more of a one-time investment compared to a recurring cost.
To learn more about dental implants, call our office today at (801) 446-4428.
