Believe it or not, tooth loss is relatively common, not just for older adults but for younger people as well. According to the American College of Prosthodontists, 120 million people in the United States are missing at least one tooth, while 36 million have experienced severe tooth loss.
If you’re missing teeth, finding the right solution is essential. While dentures and implants can help restore confidence in your smile and keep your mouth healthy, one can provide significantly greater benefits as time goes on.
Here is everything you need to know about dentures and implants to replace missing teeth.
Are Dentures or Implants Necessary?
Yes, it’s wise to invest in dental implants or dentures to replace missing teeth. After losing a tooth, your risk of further loss can dramatically increase, leading to self-esteem issues and health complications over the long term.
Even though your confidence can suffer with missing teeth, that’s not the only reason you should consider dentures or implants. When your gums are exposed, it can lead to infection and gum disease. Missing teeth can also affect the integrity of your jaw. Sometimes, adjacent teeth may try to fill the gap by shifting or moving. As your teeth move to cover missing spots, your jawbone also shifts and can become unstable.
Dental implants, in particular, help to promote greater jaw health. The titanium posts that hold the tooth in place mimic the root of a tooth, reinforcing the jaw bone and preventing deterioration through everyday chewing, smiling, and biting.
What Are Dentures?
Dentures are removable replacements that can come in a full or partial set. They are typically more affordable. However, dentures require more maintenance than implants. They can also lead to a loss of bone density in the jaw and other costly dental problems, making implants a better option for the long term.
Dentures can also slip while eating if not secured with an adhesive. In addition, they need to be cleaned regularly and replaced if they show signs of significant wear to keep your mouth healthy.
What Are Dental Implants?
Unlike dentures, dental implants are permanent replacements. They are an increasingly popular alternative that leads to a more permanent, comfortable, and long-lasting smile. Initially, they are more expensive than traditional dentures. However, implants last longer, so they can help you avoid the costs of repairing and replacing dentures.
Dental implants also require less maintenance than dentures, meaning fewer dentist trips. Rest assured that implants won’t fall out when eating or talking. In addition, for many people with missing teeth, dental implants feel more comfortable and look more natural.
They can be a great option to boost your confidence and restore your smile. When performed by an experienced implant dentist, this surgery is one of the safest procedures in the field of dentistry, according to the American Academy of Implant Dentistry.
Implants vs. Dentures: Which Is Right for You?
If you’re weighing the options between dental implants and dentures, it’s always best to talk to your dentist. Although dental implants are usually the preferred treatment option, they’re not ideal for everyone since a strong underlying jawbone is required to install implants safely.
If that is the case, you may still be able to meet in the middle with implant-supported dentures (overdentures), which can provide more stability as they’re held in place by implants instead of adhesives.
Contact Us at Long Island Implant and Cosmetic Dentistry for a Consultation
When you’re ready to explore tooth replacement options, call Long Island Implant and Cosmetic Dentistry. Our professional cosmetic dentists can help you review the options that fit your budget, lifestyle, and preferences so you can make the best choice for you. Call our Rocky Point, NY office or message us online to book a complimentary consultation.
We look forward to hearing from you!
