Dentures and dental implants are both good options for replacing lost or severely damaged teeth, but the best choice depends on each patient’s situation. Both implants and dentures have their own benefits and barriers, but in most cases, implants are a better choice over dentures.
Lee, Bonfiglio, Vesely & Associates in Annapolis, MD is a respected dental practice that helps their patients restore their healthy smiles with the best restorative dental treatment for their needs. We offer comprehensive dental consultations for patients who want to discuss whether they should consider dentures or implants to restore their smiles..
Dental Implants vs. Dentures: Benefits of Each
Dentures have been a tooth replacement treatment dating back to 2500 BCE when the Etruscans fashioned them out of animal teeth. The technology involved has come a long way since those days, of course. Today’s dentures are full arches of functional, lifelike artificial teeth that fit in the patient’s mouth and function like natural teeth. Dentures are a lower-cost option than dental implants, but this also comes with more maintenance.
Dental implants, on the other hand, are small titanium posts that are surgically implanted directly into your jaw. A false tooth is secured atop the post and offers the same stability and functionality as natural teeth. Your dentist can even insert four dental implants to support a full arch of missing teeth in a treatment called implant-secured dentures. These dentures do not require removal for cleaning or any special maintenance.
Implants feel, look, and function the same as natural teeth, won’t change shape or warp over time, and are less likely to break – giving you the natural, low-maintenance effect of natural teeth.
Are Dental Implants Right For Me?
Implants are not ideal for all patients, although they are normally the preferred treatment with a 98% success rate. Dental implants require the underlying jawbone tissue to be intact and healthy, so if you have begun to experience bone loss, you may not be a good candidate for implants. There are treatments for re-growing jawbone, so dental implants aren’t out of the question.
Patients who are missing multiple teeth may want to consider implant-supported dentures as a way to preserve jawbone health. Implants actually support the health of the underlying jawbone and facial structure by stimulating bone growth. Removable dentures do not provide this stability and may result in further bone deterioration.
Replace Missing Teeth in Annapolis, MD
Annapolis, MD dental practice Lee, Bonfiglio, Vesely & Associates have many combined years of experience and advanced training in the placement of all types of dental implants. Their expertise and artistry has helped many patients regain their smile and confidence after the dental implants procedure in Annapolis. Schedule your comprehensive consultation online or call our office today at (410) 989-8298!
