Missing teeth can affect the individual in many ways. Depending on where the missing teeth are they can make you self-conscious, especially if the missing teeth are visible.
Missing teeth can also:
Impact your bite
Cause issues chewing your food
Affect your speech
Potential for infections and gum disease since food and bacteria can get to your gums easier
One or more missing teeth can affect your other teeth. When the tooth or teeth are removed your other teeth can begin to shift to try to fill in the empty area, this can lead to losing more teeth.
The thing is, missing teeth is nothing new and neither are ways to replace those missing teeth. I’m sure you’ve all heard the story of George Washington’s wooden teeth (which is a myth). Although wood was not used for Washington’s dentures, some dentures were made out of ivory, gold, lead and even human teeth. Thankfully we now have better methods to repair and replace missing teeth.
If you have decided to move forward with tooth replacement maybe now you’re not sure which avenue to follow. Do you go with dentures or with implants? The good news is that we are here to discuss any questions with you at your next appointment. In the meantime let’s discuss the difference between the two.
Dental Implants
Dental implants are the newer option that has become more popular recently. Implants are quite simply permanent replacements for your missing tooth. Because these are permanent you will likely forget that you were missing a tooth to begin with.
Although implants do cost more than dentures initially, they will save you money over time because you will not need to visit the dentist as often for maintenance.
If you’re only missing one, or a couple of teeth, implants will likely be a better choice for you than a partial denture. You will not have to worry about them falling out while talking, laughing or eating. In turn, you will likely feel more confident and comfortable with implants than dentures.
Dentures
For some people implants are not an option. Maybe they cannot afford the cost or they have other reasons they would rather move forward with dentures. The good news is they no longer make dentures with lead or other unsettling materials. Even the dentures that your grandparents might have had are a far cry from the ones available today. You would be hard pressed to be able to tell the difference from today’s dentures and natural teeth.
The biggest benefit to dentures is that you can take them out. If you are experiencing any jaw pain, especially if you have jaw issues, you may find that dentures are the solution for you. Keep in mind that you will have to make sure your dentures are cleaned regularly and if they are starting to show signs of wear they may need to be replaced. As mentioned above, even though an adhesive is used to secure dentures there is the possibility that this adhesive could quit working and your dentures could slip out of your mouth.
Whether you are interested in implants or dentures we know you probably have questions and we’re here to help you with whatever you need. Contact us today if you would like more information about implants, dentures and or any other dental issues.
The information on this Blog is provided for general information, is not intended to provide medical, dental or surgical advice, and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. No dentist/patient relationship is established by your use of this Site. No diagnosis or treatment is being provided. The information contained here should be used in consultation with a dentist of your choice. No guarantees or warranties are made regarding any of the information contained within this Blog.
