If you have any teeth in your mouth that need replacing in order to get your mouth as healthy as possible, you have a number of options available to you. Two of the most common solutions to your dental woes are dentures and implants. So, how do you know which treatment options is right for you? We’ll take a look at the pros and cons of each to help guide you in making your decision.
Dentures Overview
Dentures are false teeth that are specifically molded to fit your mouth. These removable teeth attach to your gums with adhesive, and you take them out each night for cleaning.
Pros
- Dentures tend to be more affordable than implants, making them a good option if money is tight. However, dentures come in a range of quality levels, so don’t skimp too much.
- Dentures are suitable for people who are unable to get implants due to weak jaw bones.
- Dentures offer the flexibility of being able to take your teeth in and out as you like. It is important to keep the dentures in as much as possible during the day, though, in order to prevent further deterioration of the jaw bone.
Cons
- Even the strongest denture adhesive doesn’t work 100 percent of the time, so your dentures may come loose occasionally.
- No matter how high the quality, dentures can never fully imitate the look and feel of real teeth.
- Dentures typically last for about five years. After that, you’ll need to replace them with a new set.
Implants Overview
For implants, your dentist will surgically insert titanium posts into your jaw bone to mimic the roots of real teeth. A crown is then fitted to the top of the post, resulting in permanent false teeth.
Pros
- Implants are the closest you can get to the look and feel of real teeth. They deliver a more natural feel in your mouth.
- Because the implants are permanently attached, common activities, including eating and talking, will be easier and more comfortable than with removable dentures.
- Implants are permanent, so the only maintenance required is the occasional crown replacement or repair. Although the initial cost is much higher, this can save you money in the long run over frequent denture replacements, depending on your age.
Cons
- Implants can be quite costly, especially if you do not have dental insurance. Your dentist may be able to offer some form of financing, so don’t be shy about asking.
- Not all people are candidates for implants. Your dentist will need to evaluate the condition of your jaw bone to determine whether or not it can support implants.
Making the Decision
Your dentist can offer expert advice and guidance as to which solution is best for you, but it is ultimately your decision. You’ll need to weigh the pros and cons listed here in terms of which factors are most important to you. This is a decision that will affect your mouth for the rest of your life, so it is not one to take lightly. Take the time to evaluate your options and arrive at a suitable solution.
Here at Oso Marguerite Dental, we have over 40 years of experience in dentistry. Our dentists will be happy to discuss your options with you, answering all of your questions to help guide you in making your choice. We recognize that visiting the dentist is stressful for many people, so we do everything we can to help you feel as comfortable as possible. Get in touch with us today to schedule an appointment for a consultation with one of our expert dentists.
