Implants or Dentures: Solutions To Keep You Smiling
If you’re pondering the decision between dental implants or dentures, then it’s safe to say that you’re deeply concerned about your teeth and want the best solution possible. It’s no secret that the condition of our teeth influences our overall health, our appearance and our confidence.
While we generally associate the use of dentures with older people, the statistics say otherwise.
A Forbes article on bad teeth in Millennials unpacks the major problems that young adults are facing with premature tooth decay, trouble with biting and chewing, and tooth pain. Another article shows that over half of all adults in the UK have one or more damaged teeth.
Whether you’re a senior citizen exploring alternatives to dentures, or you’ve suffered from illness or an accident which has resulted in damaged or missing teeth, we’re certain that you’re looking for a long-term fix. Thankfully, advances in dentistry mean that nobody needs to go through life with missing teeth.
What is the Difference Between Implants and Dentures?
Before we explore the benefits of these, let’s make sure that we understand exactly what each option is.
Dentures
Dentures, or false teeth, are available as a removable dental prosthesis, made to fit into the unique shape of your mouth. They can be made up of a full row of teeth – top, bottom or both – or act as partial fillers for missing teeth. Dentures are held in place by adhesives, clips, suction or, in some cases, the muscles within the mouth.
Dental Implants
Dental implants are a more permanent solution. The implant, usually a titanium screw, is positioned within and bonded to the bone of the jaw. This solid anchor acts as a support for crowns, bridges or even full dentures which snap firmly into place.
Both options offer the benefit of a natural-looking set of teeth which allow you to smile with confidence. However, there is more to it than aesthetics alone.
The Benefits of Dental Implants
Some of the biggest concerns around the use of dentures can be resolved by the use of implants. Let’s take a look at a few.
If not fitted correctly and held securely in place with denture adhesive, dentures can (and do!) fall out or slip out of place. While eating, talking or laughing, the last thing we need is for our teeth to slip out of our mouths!
Dental implants have overcome this potential embarrassment factor as there is very little, if any movement of the dentures once they have been clipped into place. The implant screws become part of the jaw and do not rely on paste to stay put. If you have chosen to use crowns over the implants, then natural-looking teeth are yours for the long-term.
Ill-fitting dentures can promote mouth infections and decay in the remaining teeth, especially if not cared for correctly. From a maintenance perspective, regular fitting from a reputable dentist is a necessity, along with cleaning solutions, repairs, adhesives and replacement.
Tooth decay and gum disease impact the surrounding bone of the jaw which can be eroded over time and can then no longer support the remaining teeth. Fewer teeth in the mouth allow the jaw itself to shrink making it more difficult to successfully fit dentures and resulting in a “sunken” look.
Something to Chew On
Of course, there’s pros and cons to every decision we make, and our own unique needs need to be met from a physical, psychological and financial perspective.
Broadly speaking dental implants cost more initially than dentures, depending on the procedures that you need. However, most people find that dental implants more than make up their value with their long-term benefits.
We’re certain that you have more questions. Our highly skilled team are standing by to assist you and address any concerns that you may have between choosing implants or dentures.
We encourage you to call 01420 550616 to book your appointment, and we look forward to making you smile.
Information accurate at time of posting
Back to blog index