Both dentures and dental implants are popular options to replace missing teeth. But how do you know which option is the best one for you? At Westborough Dental Associates, a dentist in Westborough, MA, we can help you determine which choice you should move forward with.
What to Know About Dentures
Removable dentures are typically used to replace a full arch of missing teeth. They’re made of a metal and resin base that supports plastic or ceramic teeth. Some of the biggest benefits of dentures are that they have a cheaper cost upfront and are able to be finished quicker than dental implants. You’ll get your final restoration faster.
However, there are downsides to dentures as well. While you don’t have to pay as much upfront, you’re likely to incur more expenses down the line. When you lose teeth, your jawbone starts to deteriorate. Since dentures don’t replace the tooth root, the jaw continues to deteriorate even with the restoration. This leads to needing to get your dentures readjusted or replaced so that they continue to be functional for you.
Dentures also only give you back about 30-40% of your bite function. They require adhesive to stay in the mouth and you run the risk of them slipping or falling out when you’re eating or speaking. Because they’re removable, you need to take them out every night to thoroughly clean and soak them.
All About Dental Implants
Dental implants are often considered the gold standard of tooth replacement. They consist of three separate parts. First, a titanium implant post is placed in the jawbone. Next, a piece called an abutment is used to connect the implant post to the final restoration. The final restoration is typically a dental crown. However, implants can also support a fixed denture or bridge.
Many people are nervous about the cost of dental implants. While they’re more expensive upfront, you won’t incur more expenses down the line. Dental implants are the only solution for missing teeth that replace the tooth root. This stops the jawbone deterioration and can even reverse some of the deterioration that’s already taken place.
Implants give you back 100% of your bite function. You don’t have to make any changes to your diet or worry about the restoration moving or falling out. Dental implants take longer for the final restoration because of the surgical element. The posts being placed in the jawbone have to heal and fuse with the jawbone fully. This takes about 3-6 months. But this is crucial to giving you the stability that dental implants are known for.
Lastly, implants require no additional maintenance. They also look and feel the most like a natural tooth. Despite advancements in dentistry, dentures are still bulky and require a learning curve to get used to. This doesn’t happen with implants. Simply brush, floss, and visit the dentist regularly and you’re set for years to come!
Replacing Missing Teeth at Your Westborough, Massachusetts Dentist
Replace your missing teeth and restore your smile with Westborough Dental Associates. Call us or schedule an appointment online.