Having a great smile is good, and it is even better to chew your food comfortably. Missing teeth present significant issues for the aesthetics and function of the mouth. They can affect oral and overall health. Fortunately, several options are available to replace missing teeth. 

Of the available options for replacing missing teeth, taking the top places are dental implants and dentures. They have specific advantages and disadvantages. Choosing which is best depends on several factors, like your budget and oral health. 

So, what are dental implants and dentures? What determines which is best for you? Read on to learn more.

What Are Dental Implants?

Unlike dentures that are artificial teeth, implants are artificial replacement tooth roots. They are usually titanium screw like structures drilled into the jaw to bond with the bone. The top of the structure has an allowance for an artificial crown to attach. They are permanent teeth replacements. The type you get will depend on how many teeth need to be replaced, among other factors.

What Are Dentures?

Dentures are prosthetic teeth that an orthodontist custom-makes for a patient. They are removable and required to stay in water overnight. They are created to replace missing teeth by fitting between the remaining teeth. You can get different types of dentures depending on the condition of your mouth.

What Factors Influence Which Option Is Best for You?

• Age

Dental implants are permanent, and they tend to last a few decades. They may be ideal if you are in your sixties or younger because they will last you through most of the remaining years.

If you are much older, the invasive and lengthy procedure of the implants may be unappealing. Dentures may be an ideal option for you.

 

• Bone Density

Implants, as mentioned earlier, are embedded in the jawbone. For the implant to succeed, you will need sufficient bone density. The implant needs enough bone to bond with and grow firm. If you have lost bone material, grafting options are available, but the process will take longer.

Dentures do not need dense bone matter to work. They are created from impressions of your mouth and work together with your remaining teeth.

 

• Feel and Function

Other than the discomfort you may endure during the implant phase, dental implants are much more comfortable to use. Because they are drilled into the jaw, they feel and function like regular teeth.

Dentures, on the other hand, maybe less comfortable. It may be because they may shift in your mouth as they age. But there are hybrid dentures called implant-supported overdentures available. These offer more comfort when chewing than conventional options.

 

• Hygiene

Implants are relatively easy to maintain because they are not susceptible to decay. Most dentists recommend that you maintain a normal oral hygiene routine with implants. Brush twice a day and floss once to avoid the accumulation of plaque. 

On the other hand, dentures need a more complex hygiene and care routine. They must stay in water through the night. Also, they must be cleaned using special brushes to avoid damaging the prosthetics.

For more on which is best for you, dental implants or dentures, call btyDental at (907) 333-6666  to reach our offices in Anchorage, Alaska.