If you are missing teeth and looking to restore beauty and functionality to your smile, your dentist has probably thrown around the words “dentures” and “implants” quite a bit. Sometimes, though, it’s hard to remember the differences in looks, installation, and cost. This guide will provide you with a quick overview of the similarities and differences between dentures and implants, so you can make an educated decision on which restoration is right for you!
The health of your gums and jaw are major factors in whether you should choose implants or dentures. If you have strong, healthy gums and jaw bones, implants may be a good choice for you. They are totally secure and are attached directly to your jaw, making them the next best thing to natural teeth! Financially, they may cost slightly more than dentures, but because they are a more permanent solution, many patients consider them to be a worthwhile investment.
Dentures are removable false teeth. Usually secured with adhesive (although some kinds of dentures snap on to existing teeth), they can replace just a few teeth (partial dentures) or a whole row (full/complete dentures). These are a good option if you don’t want to go through the process of getting implants or just need an aesthetic solution for your missing teeth rather than a full overhaul of your smile’s functionality. Dentures also tend to be a more affordable solution for an incomplete smile, while still being fully customizable.
According to recent studies, it is estimated that approximately 70% of adults aged 33-45 years in the United States have at least one missing tooth, and an even higher percentage of older adults. With all the options available to you, it only makes sense to talk to your dentist about restoring the health and beauty of your smile today!