Should I Get Dentures or Dental Implants?

Losing teeth can significantly impact your daily life. It can affect your ability to speak clearly, enjoy your favorite foods, and maintain a confident smile. However, our expert team here at The Woodlands Dental Group in Woodlands, Texas, offers some excellent options for replacing missing teeth, including dentures and dental implants. 

Both options have their unique advantages and considerations, making it essential to understand the differences between them. In this blog, David Epstein, DDS, Nikita Vakil, DMD, and Leah Zils, DDS, walk you through the differences between dentures and implants.

Dentures: A tried and true solution

Dentures have long been a popular choice for replacing missing teeth, and they have improved significantly over the years. We offer two types of dentures: complete (full) and partial dentures. Here are some key points to consider when thinking about dentures:

Affordability

Dentures are generally more affordable than dental implants, making them an attractive option for those on a limited budget.

Noninvasive procedure

Unlike dental implants, dentures don’t require a surgical procedure. They’re custom-made to fit comfortably over your gums, allowing for an immediate restoration of your smile.

Because dentures are noninvasive, they may be ideal for people who can’t have — or don’t want — dental surgery. Those with uncontrolled diabetes, for instance, might not be suitable candidates for dental implants. 

Removability

Dentures are removable, which makes cleaning and maintenance relatively simple. However, this also means they may occasionally shift or slip while eating or speaking.

Adjustment period

It may take some time for your mouth to adjust to dentures. This is normal, but it’s something that should be accounted for when making your decision. You may experience initial discomfort, sores, or difficulty with speaking and eating until you become accustomed to wearing them. 

Wearing your dentures regularly, practicing speaking with them at home, and starting off with soft foods and then finely chopped foods may help you ease into life with your dentures.

Dental implants: A permanent and natural-looking solution

Dental implants have gained popularity because they’re a long-term, natural-looking tooth replacement option. Here's why dental implants might be the right choice for you:

Durability and stability

Dental implants are surgically placed into your jawbone, providing a stable foundation for artificial teeth. With proper care, they can last a lifetime, offering a permanent solution to tooth loss.

Improved oral health

Unlike dentures, which can accelerate bone resorption, implants help maintain the integrity of your jawbone.

Normally, the roots of your teeth stimulate your jawbone to keep replacing old jaw tissue with new jaw tissue. However, if you’re missing teeth, the missing roots won’t stimulate your jawbone to replace tissue in those areas, which can lead to atrophy. Dental implants, however, stimulate your jawbone to keep replacing jaw tissue, which can help you preserve your facial structure. 

Natural appearance and function

Dental implants are designed to look and feel like your natural teeth. They provide excellent chewing efficiency and restore your ability to speak clearly, giving you the confidence to smile and enjoy your favorite foods without any restrictions.

Long-term cost-effectiveness

While dental implants are more expensive up-front, their longevity can make them cost-effective over time. Unlike dentures, which may require relining or replacement as the jawbone changes, dental implants provide a permanent solution, which can reduce the need for frequent repairs or adjustments.

Choosing the right option for you

Ultimately, the choice between dentures and dental implants depends on your specific needs and circumstances. When you see us, we’ll perform a thorough evaluation and discuss your treatment options.

If you have missing teeth and want a solution that’s right for you, call 281-367-3085 to book an appointment with The Woodlands Dental Group today.