Dental Implants vs. Dentures: Exploring Your Options
September 11, 2024Choosing the best way to replace missing teeth is a big decision. Luckily, ADC Dental Group in Joplin, MO is here to help you navigate your options—from dentures to dental implants and everything in between!
Dentures: The Traditional Choice
Dentures have been the go-to solution for replacing missing teeth for years, and they’ve come a long way in terms of comfort and appearance.
Budget-Friendly: Dentures are generally more affordable upfront compared to implants.
Non-Surgical: No need for surgery! Dentures are made from molds of your mouth and can be fitted in just a few visits.
Easy to Adjust: As your mouth changes over time, dentures can be adjusted or replaced without major procedures.
However, they’re not without drawbacks:
Less Stability: Dentures can slip, especially while eating or talking, requiring frequent adjustments.
Bone Loss Over Time: Since dentures don’t fuse to your jawbone like implants, they don’t prevent bone loss, which can lead to changes in facial structure.
Dental Implants: The Modern, Permanent Solution
Dental implants offer a more permanent, natural-feeling alternative to dentures.
Long-Term Durability: Implants can last a lifetime with proper care, making them a great long-term investment.
Natural Look & Feel: Implants mimic the appearance and function of natural teeth, so you can eat, speak, and smile with confidence.
Jawbone Health: Implants stimulate the jawbone, preventing bone loss and preserving facial structure over time.
Dental implants come with their own considerations:
Surgical Procedure: Implants involve surgery, and not all patients are ideal candidates, especially those with certain health conditions or insufficient bone density.
Higher Initial Cost: Implants are more expensive upfront, but their durability and functionality often justify the investment for many patients.
Implant-Supported Dentures: The Perfect Middle Ground
For patients needing to replace an entire arch of teeth, implant-supported dentures offer a compromise between traditional dentures and dental implants.
Increased Stability: Unlike traditional dentures, implant-supported dentures are anchored by a few strategically placed implants, reducing slipping and shifting.
Fewer Implants Required: You don’t need an implant for every tooth; usually, just a few implants can support an entire arch of dentures.
Removable Option: They’re more secure than traditional dentures but can still be removed for cleaning, offering flexibility and convenience.
Note: If you’re only missing one or a few teeth, individual dental implants remain the gold standard for replacement. Implant-supported dentures are typically used when a full arch of teeth needs to be replaced.
Dentures and Dental Implants at ADC Dental Group in Joplin, MO
Whether you’re considering dentures, dental implants, or implant-supported dentures, the right choice depends on your unique dental needs and goals. At ADC Dental Group in Joplin, MO, Dr. John C. Durling II and our experienced team will help you explore your options. We’ll tailor a plan that fits your lifestyle and budget while restoring your smile. Contact us today to schedule a consultation!
Categorised in: Dental Implants, Dentures