Those with missing teeth have quite a few restoration options to choose from, with implants and dentures being two of the most popular ones.
But, after analyzing the cost and treatment process, you may realize that implants are considerably more expensive than dentures and take much longer to complete.
So, are they really worth it?
Keep reading to learn why implants may be a better investment than dentures.
While both dental implants and dentures can help restore missing teeth, how they do it differs tremendously.
Dental implants consist of a metal post that is surgically inserted into your jawbone. After the post integrates with the bone, the dentist attaches the abutment and crown to give you a new tooth that looks, feels, and functions just like a natural tooth.
Dentures, on the other hand, are removable, custom-made prosthetics. While they can be quite natural-looking, they don't feel as natural nor function as well as implants.
Here are some of the benefits that implants can bring:
One of the primary benefits of dental implants is their stability. Because they are inserted into the jawbone, the artificial teeth will not move or shift while eating, speaking, or engaging in other daily activities. Dentures, on the other hand, are removable and can become loose or slip out of place, and may cause discomfort and embarrassment.
Dental implants are very similar to natural teeth, allowing you to eat a wide variety of foods without restrictions. Since dental implants are anchored securely to the jawbone, they can withstand the pressure of biting and chewing.
Dentures, however, have a limited bite force due to their design and can make it challenging to eat certain foods, such as crunchy fruits, vegetables, or meats.
When a tooth is lost, the underlying jawbone can begin to deteriorate due to the lack of stimulation from the tooth's root. Over time, this can lead to bone mass loss, which can alter your appearance.
By replacing the tooth's root, an implant will stimulate the jawbone and prevent bone loss.
Dentures do not provide this same level of support and can contribute to ongoing bone loss.
Dental implants require minimal maintenance that involves proper oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups, making them a convenient long-term solution.
Dentures, however, require ongoing maintenance, including cleaning, adjustments, and eventual replacement. This can make dentures more time-consuming and costly in the long run.
Missing teeth or ill-fitting dentures can impact your speech, leading to difficulties in pronunciation and a lack of confidence while speaking. Dental implants provide a stable foundation for artificial teeth, making it possible to maintain natural speech.
Moreover, implants can also boost your self-esteem as you no longer have to worry about your artificial teeth slipping or clicking while speaking.
Not everyone is an ideal candidate for dental implants in Green Bay. You need to have good oral health and enough bone mass to benefit from this treatment. However, with additional preparatory procedures, like bone grafting or a sinus lift, even those with limited bone mass can experience a new smile with dental implants.
Dr. Sam Schmidt from Titletown Dental can help you determine which restorative treatment is best for your needs. All you have to do is call (920) 399-0428 or send us a message online to book your appointment.