Choosing Between Dental Implants vs Dentures
It is important to understand how dental implants and dentures differ. While they both restore a smile’s aesthetics and function, their placement, maintenance, cost, and long-term effects vary greatly.
Dental Implants
A dental implant is an artificial replacement that looks and functions like a natural tooth. A titanium screw called a post is inserted into the jaw, where it eventually fuses with the bone. It is topped with an abutment, which will support the future crown.
After several months, the abutment is covered by a porcelain or ceramic crown that looks like a real tooth. Dental implants can be color-matched to suit your smile, though remember that whitening only works on natural teeth.
Dentures
Dentures are removable dental appliances that mimic the look and functionality of real teeth. They can work well for patients who are missing many or all of their teeth, especially in the front of the mouth. They are less expensive than implants and can work for patients who don’t have severe bone loss in the jaw.
Dentures serve as a prosthesis, allowing you to chew, speak, and perform daily tasks with confidence.
The biggest potential cons of dentures include discomfort while wearing them, gum irritation, and unavoidable future bone loss from missing teeth. This is because dental implants stimulate the jawbone through chewing, whereas dentures only sit above the gums and jawbone.
However, many patients love the instantaneous restoration dentures provide. Once yours are made, all you have to do is put them in for a beautiful smile.
Should You Get Dental Implants or Dentures?
Schedule a consultation with Dr. Adler or Dr. Ross of Adler Advanced Dentistry to receive a personal evaluation. Our experienced team offers a wide range of orthodontic, general, cosmetic, and restorative dental services in Boulder, CO, to help you achieve a beautiful, healthy smile.
To request an appointment, please call 303-449-1119 or submit our contact form.
