If you’ve had a bad tooth infection, an injury, gum problems, or another issue that resulted in lost teeth, you’ll need to consider finding replacements to fill the gaps. Two of the most common options these days are dentures and dental implants. Each of these options has its own pros and cons, and it’s always a good idea to do your research (with the help of your dentist, of course) before deciding what’s right for you. In this post, we’ll take a closer look at dental implants vs. dentures to help you make an informed decision.
The Pros And Cons Of Dental Implants
Pros
Dental implants are a more recent solution for missing teeth when compared to dentures, and many people find them far more natural, more like real teeth. They consist of artificial tooth roots made of titanium that are inserted into your jawbone surgically. After a period of time, the implant integrates with the bone, and then a crown or false tooth is attached to the implant.
Many people who prefer dental implants like them because they are durable and can last a lifetime with proper care. They are less likely than dentures to need replacement, and have a more natural look and feel, functioning basically the same as a natural tooth. They won’t slip or move, and you can speak and eat just like with your natural teeth.
The fact that dental implants are embedded directly into your jawbone means they can help prevent bone loss and preserve your bone density. Many patients find dental implants far more comfortable than dentures because they are securely anchored and provide a stable fit. They also don’t rely on any neighbouring teeth for support.
Cons
On the negative side, dental implants can be quite costly and aren’t always covered by insurance. The total cost consists of the implant itself, the abutment, crown, and possible bone grafting. There is also a lot of healing time involved with dental implants. It can take months for the implant to integrate with your jawbone before the crown can be attached, and the implant procedure itself requires considerable healing.
There is also a bone density requirement when you have dental implants. If there’s any type of bone loss, you may need grafting to build up the bone before the procedure. Naturally, this adds quite a bit of time, complexity, and cost to the entire process.
Taking Care Of Your Dental Implants
While dental implants look and act like natural teeth, it’s still important to take special care and precautions to keep them in good condition at all times. Here are some tips you can follow:
- Use a soft bristle toothbrush to brush your teeth at least twice a day
- Rinse your mouth with an antimicrobial mouthwash to reduce bacteria and keep your gums healthy
- Floss every day to help remove plaque and food particles from between your teeth and around the dental implants
- Be careful eating hard foods like candy or ice, and sticky foods like caramel that may damage or dislodge your crown
- Don’t use your teeth to open bottles or packages because this can cause damage to both your natural teeth and your implants
- Keep up with your regular dental checkups and cleanings at least twice per year
The Pros And Cons Of Dentures
Pros
Dentures have been a mainstay for many decades when it comes to replacing missing teeth. We can use dentures to replace all of your teeth, or just a few. A dental denture is typically made of an acrylic resin that sometimes includes metal, and they rest on your gums to take the place of your missing teeth. Dentures have also been called “false teeth” for many years.
When compared to dental implants, dentures are usually more affordable, which makes them more accessible to many patients. When you get dentures, you won’t have to go through a typical surgery, as it is a non-invasive procedure. Many patients like the fact that they can get dentures created and placed much sooner than with the dental implant process.
Dentures can also be easily adjusted or repaired if they become damaged or uncomfortable, and they are a viable option for replacing multiple teeth. Unlike dental implants that require a certain amount of bone density to function properly, dentures don’t rely on your jaw bone density to make them a suitable option.
Cons
There are also some disadvantages to dentures. Many people have issues with comfort, especially in the early days of using them. And if you have changes in your gums or jawbone over time, the stability of your dentures may suffer. You may also notice that certain foods can be difficult to eat, or particles can slip underneath the denture, causing pain and discomfort.
If you’re not big on daily maintenance, then dentures may seem like a chore because they require regular cleaning and proper maintenance to prevent bacterial buildup, unpleasant odours, and staining. There’s also the psychological component. Quite often, dentures don’t look exactly like your regular teeth, which can lead to issues with smiling and self-confidence when they are in place.
Taking Care Of Your Dentures
It’s important to take proper care of your dentures for many reasons: your oral health, to prevent costly issues or repairs, and for your overall comfort level. Here are some tips to help keep dentures clean and in good condition all the time:
- Be sure to rinse them off after eating
- Clean them every day with a soft bristle toothbrush
- Use a proper denture cleanser instead of regular toothpaste
- Take the time to remove plaque from your gums, tongue, and roof of your mouth with a soft bristle toothbrush while your dentures are out
- Be sure to soak your dentures in a proper denture cleanser every night
- Store them in a clean container when they aren’t being used
- Never use boiling water to clean or soak your dentures
- Be sure to always rinse them thoroughly before you put them back in your mouth
Dental Implants Vs Dentures — Which Is Right For You?
Most people have a preference in mind when they know it’s time to replace missing teeth. Of course, consulting with your dentist to get all the details about which option is best for you and your lifestyle is always the best course of action before making a final decision. Give us a call at (416) 232-2033 or request an appointment by clicking here.