Tooth loss is a serious problem that is estimated to affect well over 120 million Americans, with about 40 million missing all of their original pearly whites. As tooth loss becomes more and more widespread, dental technology has adapted to best suit the needs of those with missing teeth. Two popular solutions include dentures and dental implants. But how do these two options compare? Is one of them inherently better than the other? Keep reading to find out.
What Are Dentures?
A denture is a set of artificial teeth anchored onto a gum-colored acrylic base. This base then stays attached to your gum tissue via natural suction, and sometimes a little denture adhesive. While modern dentures have come a long way, they do still sometimes lose their fit and need to be replaced every few years.
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are screw-shaped titanium posts that are inserted into your jawbone to replicate the roots of your lost teeth. These posts stimulate your jawbone, preventing bone loss that typically comes with tooth loss. In the case of someone missing all of their teeth, an average of four to six dental implants can be strategically placed throughout the jaw to hold a permanent denture in place, restoring the patient’s biting force. Implants are designed to last for several decades, possibly even the rest of a patient’s life, and they never need to be refitted.
Why Are Dental Implants the Better Option?
There are many reasons why implants are a better solution to tooth loss in the long run, such as:
- Implants preserve your jawbone, which helps to maintain your facial structure and keep you looking young.
- Because implants are firmly rooted in your jawbone, they wind up feeling exactly like your natural teeth. Dentures can sometimes feel a bit fake or unnatural.
- With implants, you can eat pretty much whatever you want, whereas with dentures, certain foods, such as chewing gum and sticky candies, should be avoided.
- Dental implants can last for decades, while dentures need to be relined or replaced every few years.
- It’s easier to clean implants: simply brush and floss as normal. Dentures require extra effort when cleaning.
Now you can see why dental implants are clearly the better alternative to dentures when it comes to replacing missing teeth. If you’re sick of suffering through tooth loss, ask your dentist if dental implants are right for you!
About the Author
Dr. Dennis E. Stansbury earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from Baylor College of Dentistry well over 40 years ago. His professional memberships include the American Dental Association, the Texas Dental Association, and the American College of Dentists, where he has achieved Fellowship status. His practice in Tyler, TX offers both dentures and dental implants to replace your missing teeth. To learn more, you can visit Dr. Stansbury’s website.