People with damaged teeth, tooth decay, gum disease, or the natural effects of aging may require replacement teeth. In other cases, injury can create the need for new teeth. Both dentures and dental implants can replace one or several teeth, restoring a full smile and protecting against future oral health problems.
Missing teeth are associated with several different oral health concerns — particularly if the condition worsens before treatment. These problems include bad breath and difficulty chewing. Over time, these challenges can worsen into long-term chronic stress and more intense pain.
What are dentures?
Dentures consist of a removable or fixed plate attached to one or more artificial teeth. They help to replace missing teeth and often cover parts of your jaw. Most dentures are custom-fit to your mouth and are often supported by gums or supplementary implants.
Dentures come in several forms, depending on the number of teeth you need to replace. Partial dentures replace one or several teeth, but they are not meant to replace an entire smile. A dentist might recommend complete dentures when all of your original teeth — or a section of your teeth — require replacement. They’ll typically recommend partial or complete dentures, depending on your individual situation.
Partial dentures are further classified as removable or fixed. Removable partial dentures use metal clasps or other items to attach to the remaining teeth. Fixed partial dentures, sometimes called dental bridges, fix gaps between missing teeth through a mechanically attached prosthesis.
Like partial dentures, complete dentures come in several forms. A prosthodontist, or another dental specialist, will install immediate complete dentures on the same day as your teeth removal procedure. They will wait to install conventional complete dentures until after your gums heal.
Dentures help restore the way your teeth look and feel, and also help to improve your confidence in your own appearance. They allow you to chew and speak normally, while feeling more self-assured about your restored smile. Dentures can also help prevent further dental problems like teeth-shifting or jawbone loss.
Advantages of dentures
Dentures offer several advantages to patients. They are typically less expensive than dental implants or other tooth-replacement options. They can also improve your appearance, your level of self-confidence, and your oral health. Dentures can restore your ability to communicate, particularly if missing teeth were affecting speech patterns. You’ll also be able to chew and eat a wider variety of foods after replacing your teeth.
Finding the right doctor to install dentures may take time. Perform your own research and consult loved ones for recommendations. You can also read online reviews and check credentials to find a clinician qualified to perform the procedure.
Disadvantages of dentures
Depending on their design, dentures don’t always share the same natural look and feel as dental implants. They also require regular maintenance to prevent plaque and bacteria buildup. They can also wear down and lose their fit over time. Eventually, you may need to replace or reline your dentures to restore their effectiveness.
Removable dentures may sometimes slip or shift out of place. This could cause discomfort and embarrassment, particularly if you are eating or socializing.
In some cases, dentures may also accelerate the bone resorption process. This can occur when the jawbone shrinks, creating a drop in bone density as bones are reabsorbed into the body. Bone resorption may cause further complications with the stability of your dentures.
What are dental implants?
Dental implants are another popular option for missing teeth. They are surgically installed as permanent fixtures in your mouth, implanted into your jawbone. Dental implants support other dental solutions like bridges and crowns.
Endosteal and subperiosteal dental implants are two of the most common types. Endosteal implants replace tooth roots with screws drilled into the jawbone. Your dentist or prosthodontist will install subperiosteal implants directly above the jawbone and directly beneath healthy gum tissue.
Most dental implants work just like your natural teeth. Patients can speak, eat, and sleep normally after receiving dental implants.
Advantages of dental implants
Dental implants are known to offer several advantages. They provide patients with a more natural-looking smile, protect jawbone health, and help prevent further dental issues. They can also help to improve your speech.
As long as you take proper care of your dental implants, your dentist will never need to replace them. This makes them a preferred long-term solution for missing teeth.
Disadvantages of dental implants
Dental implants also have a few disadvantages. They can be more expensive than other teeth replacement options like dentures. Dental implant placement also requires surgery, which might be intimidating for some patients. You might also require additional procedures like bone grafting or sinus lifting.
Getting dental implants is sometimes a time-consuming process. From the initial consultation to the final placement, the process may take several months. Patients also face the risk of complications during or after surgery. These risks can include infection, bleeding, or nerve damage.
Do your research to find the right dental implant doctor for you. Look for dental professionals who specialize in implant dentistry and have a proven track record. Don’t be afraid to ask questions or voice hesitations during your initial consultation.
Alternatives to dentures and implants
Dentures and dental implants aren’t the only solutions to replace missing teeth. Other options include partial dentures, which are attached to your remaining teeth to create a full smile. Overdentures can have the same effect, fitting over your natural teeth while supported by implants. Dental bridges adhere to your remaining teeth and can also replace missing teeth.
Some of these alternatives to replace teeth are less expensive than comprehensive dental implants. They are less invasive and don’t require surgery for installation. The process of receiving a bridge, overdentures, or partial dentures is also faster than a full procedure.
Like other forms of teeth replacement, these alternatives often require maintenance. They can sometimes cause discomfort, particularly during an adjustment period. Overdentures and bridges specifically may require repair if they wear or receive damage over time.
How to choose the right replacement option
It’s important to consult a dentist before deciding on any teeth replacement option. The dentist can assess your oral health and recommend the best option based on your goals, health, and timeline. They can also help you better understand the advantages and disadvantages of each option.
Don’t rush to find the right dentist. Do your own research and read through their credentials before making a decision. You can also consult online reviews and ask your primary care provider for any recommendations.
It’s important to search for providers who accept your insurance and match your budget before deciding on a dentist. You should also consider your desired outcome and whether the replacement option will meet the goals you’ve set for your oral health.