Wondering if you should choose dental implants or dentures? Our dental implant dentists in Plymouth, and Ann Arbor, MI, can help you better understand your . That way, you can feel informed and confident about your treatment plan at Morse Dental Group.
Here’s what you need to know about the main differences between dental implants and dentures.
Stability and Functionality
Dentures are removable appliances that are supported by the surrounding tissues and rely on suction or adhesive to stay in place. While they provide basic functionality, they can slip or shift during speaking or eating, leading to discomfort and embarrassment.
On the other hand, dental implants are surgically placed into the jawbone, acting as artificial tooth roots. This integration provides a stable foundation for replacement teeth, allowing individuals to enjoy improved chewing efficiency and speech without concerns about slipping.
Aesthetics and Natural Feel
Dentures, especially modern ones, are designed to look natural and are customized to fit the individual’s mouth. However, some users may still experience difficulty adapting to the foreign sensation and occasional gum irritation caused by dentures.
A closely mimics the appearance and function of a natural tooth. They provide a more comfortable and lifelike experience, as the implants fuse with the jawbone, creating a strong and permanent foundation for the replacement teeth.
Bone Health and Preservation
One of the main benefits of dental implants is their ability to stimulate the jawbone, preventing bone loss. When teeth are lost, the jawbone can deteriorate over time, leading to facial sagging and a sunken appearance.
Dental implant treatment addresses this issue by integrating with the bone and stimulating its growth, preserving the natural facial structure. Dentures, however, do not stimulate the jawbone and may contribute to bone resorption.
Maintenance and Longevity
Dentures require regular cleaning and maintenance to prevent plaque buildup, odor, and staining. They may need adjustments or relining over time due to changes in the mouth’s shape or the loss of bone and gum tissue.
Dental implants, once placed and properly cared for, can last a lifetime with regular oral hygiene practices similar to natural teeth. They eliminate the need for messy adhesives, special cleaning solutions, and frequent adjustments, making them a more convenient long-term solution.
Affordability and Accessibility
Dentures are generally more affordable upfront compared to the dental implant procedure. They offer a viable option for individuals with budget constraints or those seeking a temporary solution. Dental implants, however, tend to have a higher initial cost due to the surgical procedure and materials involved.
However, it is essential to consider the long-term benefits and potential savings with dental implants as they eliminate the need for replacements or extensive maintenance over time.
Oral Health and Wellness
One of the main benefits of dental implants is that they don’t affect adjacent teeth like a bridge would. For dental bridge treatment, we would need to prepare any natural adjacent teeth to accept the porcelain crowns. However, with dental implants, we’re able to leave the surrounding teeth intact.
This allows you to preserve as much natural tooth structure as possible while promoting good jawbone health. It’s a win-win!
Schedule a Dental Implant Consultation
Our dental implant dentists in Plymouth, and Ann Arbor, MI, are accepting new patients. To schedule an appointment and learn if you’re a candidate for dental implant treatment, please call any of our Morse Dental Group locations. You may also fill out our online contact form and someone from our team will reach out to you soon.
This blog post has been updated.