If you’re looking to improve your appearance as well as your oral health, you’ve many options. However, each option has its own significance and use which should be thoroughly known before you go for any treatment and this is why we’re here today.

In this article, we’ll put our focus mainly on dental implants and dentures.

Dental implants and dentures are both used to fix missing teeth. But that’s not all; they also help fix your jawline structure, which can be seriously affected due to missing teeth. Also, if some of your teeth are missing, the gum is left exposed to food bits and bacteria, which in turn can cause infections.

Now you know why these treatments are necessary, but how can you tell which is the right one for you?

When to go for dental implants?

Dental implants are permanent teeth replacement solutions. In dental implants, the natural root is replicated. This treatment is suitable when you have one or more missing teeth. Getting implants can be costly but they are more durable than dentures, so you’re going to save more money in the long run. People that use dental implants require fewer visits to the dentist and are easier to maintain.

In addition, they feel more comfortable and look more natural than dentures. If you want to feel like you’ve never lost a tooth in the first place, dental implants are your best option!

Procedure for Dental Implants

The correct placement of dental implants is critical and requires adequate skill. The material used for fabrication of implants is titanium, which is extremely biocompatible. Implants consist of a post, which is placed inside the jawbone. This part provides support for the new tooth that is to be placed on top of the post. A hole is drilled into the jawbone in which the post is placed. Over time a union develops between the bone and the implant, which is termed as osseointegration. During this period, it is imperative that the implant is not disturbed. This will affect the quality of osseointegration.

After complete healing, another part called an abutment is placed on top of the post. This serves to connect the implant and the new tooth. Lastly, the implant is loaded with the prosthesis which can be an individual tooth or fixed bridge or dentures replacing multiple missing teeth.

When are dentures the right choice?

Dentures are removable teeth replacements for your mouth. With dentures, you further have two options: complete or partial dentures. Complete dentures replace all the teeth in either the upper or lower gum line or even both, while partial dentures are used to fill up spaces or gaps in between the natural teeth.

Dentures are less expensive than dental implants and they give you the freedom to remove them throughout the day if you need to for any reason. They’re an ideal option for anyone with unhealthy or weak jaws. However, dentures aren’t for everyone. If not secured with denture adhesive, they can slip out of place while eating or speaking. Dentures can also lead to infection or tooth decay if they’re not fitted properly. They also need to be cleaned regularly or replaced if they show signs of significant wear.

What are dentures made up of? How are they installed in your mouth?

Historically, dentures were made of porcelain or plastic. But now, dentures are made up of pink-colored acrylic base, which supports the denture teeth. The materials used to make denture teeth are known to be more fragile than natural teeth and can easily chip or crack if dropped or otherwise uncared for. These also wear down much quicker than natural teeth and thus must be replaced with a new set of dentures every five years or so. Some dentures will include a lightweight metal framework that provides extra strength and support.

The supporting structure of dentures that holds the artificial teeth in place and resembles the natural gum line is often made out of a similar resin used for the teeth, or a more flexible polymer material that fits snugly on the natural gum line.

Complete dentures rest directly on the gums, while partial dentures are supported by clasps around existing teeth. Partial dentures may also be attached with precision attachments that are fitted onto crowns.

The final word

Dentures and dental implants both have their advantages and drawbacks. It really depends on the condition of your teeth, jaw, and your budget. More importantly, listen to the advice of your dentist. They’ll know better what’s best for your needs.

Therefore, it’s always a good idea to schedule an appointment with your dentist and discuss the details with them first.

Schedule An Appointment!