Just the thought of losing permanent teeth can cause stress, fear, and anxiety in many people. The idea of not having your natural teeth can feel like a huge change in what you can expect from your diet and general enjoyment of life. Fortunately, dental science has come a long way since the day of George Washington’s wooden teeth. Patients now have several options when it comes to replacing their permanent teeth, but two of the most popular are dentures and dental implants. This article will discuss some of the benefits and drawbacks of each of these to help you make an informed decision about your future, and hopefully reduce some of your worries.


 

Dentures

Dentures are considered removable dental appliances. Dentures help to restore the function of your teeth and gums. Complete dentures are used when an entire upper or lower row of teeth needs to be replaced. These dentures fit over the existing gums and are specifically created to fit your mouth. Partial dentures are used when only some of the teeth in that row need to be replaced. Partial dentures can be fastened to the gums or to adjacent teeth for stability.



 

Dental Implants

Dental implants are prosthetic teeth that are attached to the mouth by surgically installing titanium posts into the bone underlying the gums. The bone that surrounds the posts will actually develop new bone that further helps to hold the overlying implant firmly in place. Dental implants can be used to restore entire rows, some, or even a single tooth.



 

Denture Drawbacks

While dentures offer a solution that may be the best fit for many patients, there are some potential drawbacks that may make them less ideal for your situation. The first is that the denture is not attached to the underlying jawbone and no new bone growth will occur. In fact, rather than grow new bone, the denture approach generally leads to further jawbone loss or resorption. Additionally, dentures lack the support and stability of the dental implant. Dentures also require daily maintenance and are usually removed at night in order to be sterilized in a specialized solution.



 

Dental Implant Drawbacks

While dental implants offer many great benefits, there are a few considerations that you should weigh when making your selection. Dental implants require invasive surgery in order to place the titanium post. While the surgery is relatively minor, it will cause some discomfort for a few days after the procedure. In addition, dental implants typically have a higher up-front cost than dentures. Although, many patients feel that this cost is recouped by the low maintenance, and long lifespan of dental implants.



 

Other Considerations

One of the biggest factors affecting patient choice is the lifestyle that they want to live. Dentures are easily removable, which can make them easier to get out for their regular cleanings but can also affect a person’s ability to comfortably talk in a public setting, enjoy the foods that they want, or can even interfere with regular breathing. On the other hand, dental implants offer a stable and resistant surface, so you can smile, talk, and eat without the fear that your secret might be revealed. In addition, dental implants require little change in your normal dental routine.



 

Overview

If you are considering whether dental implants or dentures are the best choices for your situation, call Barotz Dental in Denver, CO today to schedule an appointment by calling (303) 595-4994. Our talented and knowledgeable staff can help answer any of your questions and make sure that you receive the outcome that is best for you. The choice of dentures or dental implants shouldn’t be filled with anxiety, and we can help guide you to a relaxed and confident future.