Losing one or more teeth can have a profoundly negative impact on your oral health and confidence. Fortunately, there are numerous options available on the market that can help restore the appearance and function of your smile. Some of the most popular prosthetic options on the market are dentures and dental implants.
Each prosthetic has unique features and benefits, making it difficult to determine which is best for you. To understand whether dentures or dental implants are best for you, it’s important to know what these prosthetics are and how they perform. If you’re looking into dental prosthetics and are having a hard time choosing, keep reading to learn more about these popular options.
What are Dentures?
Dentures are custom-made replacements for missing teeth that restore the appearance and function of your smile. Whether you need a full set or partial replacement, dentures are designed to look natural and fit securely in your mouth. They’re a popular and affordable option for anyone looking to regain confidence and function after tooth loss.
The Pros
- Cost-Effective: While you may need to replace missing teeth, you might not have the funds for more expensive prosthetics. Unlike some other options, dentures are a lower-cost option, making them a better choice for many patients.
- Easy to Clean: Dentures are easily removed, which also makes them easy to clean. As long as you have access to proper cleaning solutions, you can trust that your dentures are in good condition and that you can avoid oral health complications.
- Accessible: Many dental offices will have the training, tools, and experience to fit dentures for their patients. This means you likely won’t have to visit a new dental office to get this prosthetic.
The Cons
- Slipping: If your dentures don’t fit as they should or you aren’t using adhesives correctly, you may find that they slip throughout the day. This slipping can make wearing them incredibly uncomfortable.
- Bone Loss: When you lose one or more teeth, your jawbone may not be stimulated the way it once was. Dentures also don’t stimulate your jawbone, which may result in the deterioration of the bone over time.
What are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are long-lasting, natural-looking replacements for missing teeth that are inserted into your jaw. These implants mimic your tooth roots, providing a strong base for crowns, bridges, and dentures. With proper care, dental implants can last a lifetime, helping you smile, eat, and speak with confidence.
The Pros
- Better Fit: Dental implants are securely anchored to your jawbone, providing an incredibly comfortable fit. You won’t ever have to worry about the implant slipping or shifting while eating or talking.
- Preserves Bone: As mentioned above, tooth loss can also lead to deterioration of the jawbone. When you insert an implant into the bone, it stimulates the surrounding bone, helping to prevent bone loss.
- Natural Look: If you opt for cheaply made dental prosthetics, they may not resemble your natural teeth as closely, which can negatively impact your confidence. Implants are designed to resemble your existing teeth, blending seamlessly into your mouth.
The Cons
- Cost: While dental implants are a reliable dental prosthetic, they can be more expensive than some other options on the market. If you’re looking for a lower-cost option, dental implants may not be right for you at the moment.
- Timeline: Many patients who are experiencing tooth loss may want to restore their smile immediately. The dental implant process can take several months, which may be unappealing to some patients.
Which is Best for You?
Choosing between dentures and dental implants depends on your oral health, lifestyle, and budget. Dentures are often a more affordable solution and work well for people with significant tooth loss or weaker jawbones. They’re non-surgical and can be removed for cleaning. Dental implants are an ideal solution for those seeking a permanent, low-maintenance option.
They require healthy gums and sufficient bone density, as well as a willingness to undergo surgery. If you are considering dental prosthetics, it is always best to turn to your trusted dental team for their opinion. Your dentist will consider factors like overall health, bone structure, and long-term goals to help guide your decision.
How to Prepare for Dentures and Dental Implants
Whether you decide that dentures or dental implants are best for your smile, there are a few things you should do before getting started. If you are preparing for a new dental prosthetic, make sure to incorporate the following into your routine:
- Maintain Great Oral Hygiene: The first step in preparing for new dental prosthetics is maintaining good oral hygiene. You should brush your teeth twice daily and floss at least once a day to prevent tooth decay and maintain good gum health.
- Discontinue Nicotine Use: Whether you smoke cigarettes, use an e-cigarette, or have nicotine pouches, it is best to discontinue these products before your dental prosthetic, as this can inhibit your healing ability, leading to potential complications.
- Schedule Dental Exams: Contact your trusted dental team to schedule your twice-yearly dental exam. During this appointment, your team can detect signs of gum disease, cavities, and other oral health issues that may compromise your prosthetics.
- Essential Pre-Prosthetic Treatment: Your dental team may recommend root canals, tooth extractions, and bone grafts before you can get prosthetics. Without undergoing these treatments, you may not be a good candidate for your desired prosthetic.
Reach Your Dream Smile at North View Dental
Getting dentures or dental implants can be daunting, but when you work with the right dental team, the process becomes much easier. A team of experienced dental professionals can provide tailored advice and ensure you’re ready for this process. If you’re looking for a reliable dental team in the North Ogden area, turn to our North View Dental team.
Since 2000, our team has provided patients across the area with comprehensive oral care. From standard dental cleanings to more complex procedures, we’re here to support you and put your mind at ease. Don’t go into upcoming appointments feeling stressed. Instead, turn to our team and trust that you’re working with the best team in the area.
If you would like to discuss dental prosthetics with our team, contact us today to schedule an appointment.
