Dental implants and dentures are used for replacing missing teeth. Every patient is unique, so you must be aware of each option’s pros and cons before you make a decision. A Burlington, Ontario family dentist can help you make an informed decision regarding your dental treatment.
What are Dentures?
Dentures are oral appliances created to mimic the look and function of your natural teeth. Depending on the number of teeth you have lost, you may have to get a partial or full denture. A partial denture is used if you only lost a few teeth, while a full denture is meant to replace an entire teeth arch.
Dentures tend to sit on the gums and should be removed before going to bed. This way, the gums can recover. Dentures must be submerged in water or denture cleanser to prevent them from warping, cracking, or drying out. Dentures are further categorized into immediate dentures, removable partial dentures, and traditional full dentures.
What are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are prosthetic tooth roots surgically insert into the jaw to support a dental crown. They are meant to offer stimulation to the jaw to avoid bone loss. With these implants, you can continue to consume foods without worrying about your implants slipping since they are permanently installed in your mouth. Dental implants must be taken care of like natural teeth.
What is the Best Teeth Replacement Option for You?
Although dentures are cheaper than implants, they cannot stop jawbone deterioration, which can happen when you lose a tooth. When your body detects a tooth is missing, it absorbs the jaw’s minerals to use elsewhere. In this case, the jaw area will weaken and deteriorate. Also, the teeth that surround the empty space will shift toward the gap, causing misalignments.
Over time, your face may collapse, changing your facial shape and making it hard to wear dentures. If you are worried about jawbone deterioration and further tooth loss, ask your dentist if you can get implants. Generally, implants are for people who have healthy gum tissue and adequate jawbone density. To ensure the implants will fuse to the jaw successfully, you must have sufficient jawbone tissue that can support the implant. Your dentist can determine if are a candidate for this procedure. If you are not, they can introduce other options to replace your missing teeth, including dentures. Whatever your choice is, your dentist will help restore your smile after you have lost your teeth.