Dental implants are a permanent and stable alternative to traditional options like dentures. Implants and dentures address the functional and aesthetic issues caused by missing teeth, but they differ in terms of longevity, maintenance, and daily comfort. If you have been searching for information about dental implants, here is more information about their benefits and how they compare to traditional dentures:
Implants and Dentures
Dental implants are small titanium posts that replace the roots of missing teeth. The posts integrate with the jawbone, and they create a foundation for artificial crowns or bridges. Professionals recommend implants for patients who have lost one or several teeth due to injury or decay. Dentures are removable appliances that rest on the gums to replace missing natural teeth. These devices help restore the appearance of a smile and allow for improved chewing.
Both implants and dentures help address several common oral health conditions:
- Tooth loss due to advanced periodontal disease.
- Difficulty chewing caused by missing molars.
- Facial sagging resulting from a lack of tooth support.
- Speech impediments caused by gaps in the dental arch.
Evaluation and Placement
To begin the process of getting implants, the dentist performs a detailed surgical consultation. The dentist then places a titanium post into the jawbone, and the bone heals around the post over several months. This fusion is called osseointegration. Once the area heals, the provider attaches an abutment and a custom crown to the post.
For dentures, the procedure typically involves taking impressions of the oral tissues. These molds allow a lab to create a custom prosthetic, and it fits the unique shape of the gums. Patients may need multiple adjustments to see that the appliance sits comfortably during daily activities.
Maintenance and Hygiene
Maintaining dental implants involves the same habits used for natural teeth; brush twice a day and use dental floss to clean around the implant site. Because these devices are fixed in place, you do not need to remove them for cleaning. Implants can last many years with proper care and maintenance.
Dentures require a more involved daily routine to remain functional. Remove the prosthetic every night, and brush it with a non-abrasive cleaner. Soaking the appliance overnight is part of the maintenance routine. During a twice-yearly checkup, a dentist monitors the health of the surrounding gum tissue.
Lifestyle and Comfort
Everyday life with implants feels very similar to life with natural teeth, and the stability of the titanium post allows you to eat a wide variety of foods without the device slipping. Because the implants are anchored in the bone, they do not require adhesives to stay in place. Life with dentures can involve some adjustments to eating and speaking habits. These prosthetics can occasionally shift while you talk or chew.
Learn More About Dental Implants
Dental implants and dentures are tools that restore the function and appearance of your smile. Implants replace the root and crown of a tooth, while dentures provide a removable surface-level prosthetic. To learn more about the benefits of dental implants, consult a dental provider today.