If you’ve lost most or all of your teeth, you may feel like you will never talk, smile, and eat normally again. Fortunately, that doesn’t have to be the case! Both dentures and dental implants are amazing tooth replacement options. Here’s a guide to help you determine which restoration is right for your smile.
What Are Dental Implants?
An implant is a small biocompatible, titanium rod that is surgically placed into the jawbone, which acts as a replacement tooth root. After the rod placement heals, a crown or bridge is then placed over the rod to form a secure and strong substitute for your missing tooth.
Pros & Cons
The dental implant procedure is completed in a series of visits over time to allow for adequate healing of your jaw. If you take care of dental implants properly, you will have a long-lasting smile (up to 25 years!). Because dental implants are made of artificial materials, they cannot develop cavities like natural teeth; however, you absolutely must clean your dental implants as you would natural teeth. The buildup of plaque can lead to gum inflammation, infection, and disease that will compromise the stability of your implants. So be sure to brush twice a day for two minutes each time, floss, and rinse with mouthwash. Our dentists will also want to see you regularly to check the health of your gums and integrity of your implants.
What Are Dentures?
Dentures have come a long way from the clunky, ill-fitting ones that you may have seen your elderly family members using in the past. Our expert dentists will work closely with you to create the perfect, most realistic-looking pair of dentures for optimal comfort, function, and appearance.
Pros & Cons
Dentures must be rinsed and cleaned often with water and a specially-formulated denture paste because regular toothpaste is too abrasive for dentures. Removable dentures do not require oral surgery, but you will need to use an adhesive material to stick your dentures to your gums. They also must be refitted every few years and replaced every five to ten years. Alternatively, to enjoy the best of both dentures and implants, you can opt for implant-supported dentures. These are dentures that snap on and off dental implants for excellent stability so you don’t have to hassle with adhesives.
Consult with Our Expert Team to Restore Your Smile!
If you’re missing most of your teeth, know that you have plenty of options to replace them. Restoring your smile will help you have a healthy mouth, boosted confidence, and improved quality of life! Our team at Summit Family Dentistry would be thrilled to walk you through our restorative dentistry services. We will help you choose the best treatment for your situation and budget. Ask us about our payment options and our Summit Savings Plan, which offers 10-25% off additional preventive care and restorative treatments. Contact us to schedule an appointment!
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