Factors to Consider When Choosing Between Dentures and Implants

Since missing teeth can negatively impact your overall health and well-being, you wouldn’t want to wait long before replacing them. If you’re trying to choose between dentures and dental implants in Boca Raton, we’re here to help you make an informed decision.   

Dentures vs Dental Implants: Which Is the Right Choice for You?  

Dentures are artificial teeth and gums. Unlike other teeth replacement options, dentures don’t require a surgical procedure. You can take out your artificial teeth whenever needed.  

Alternatively, dental implants are the closest to having a natural set of teeth because your dentist surgically places these biocompatible screw-like titanium posts into your jawbone. Since implants are placed underneath your gums, they’re non-removable.  

What to Consider When Choosing Between Dentures and Implants

Age

People in their 60s or younger may want to choose a more permanent solution to missing teeth. In such cases, dental implants allow them to enjoy decades of use out of their artificial teeth. However, dentures may be a more reasonable long-term solution for older adults who prefer less invasive and time-consuming procedures involved with dental implants. 

Bone Density

Dental implants generally require at least 1mm of jawbone material to support the posts. Patients who’ve lost a significant amount of bone due to age, injury, gum disease, or tooth loss, may not be ideal candidates for this tooth-replacement option. Unless the dentist performs a dental bone grafting procedure, the jawbone’s volume and density won’t be enough to support the implants in areas where bone loss has occurred. 

Alternatively, dentures are an excellent way to have the appearance of a full smile for patients with unhealthy or weak jawbones. While dentures can conceal gaps between teeth and restore the mouth’s natural shape, they need to be secured to teeth with a metal framework to ensure a comfortable fit. Without enough existing teeth to support them, they tend to move while the patient eats or speaks. 

Appearance, Comfort, and Feel

Dental implants mimic the entire tooth structure. For this reason, they look and act like natural teeth. They also provide a better comfort level over other alternatives. Although today’s conventional dentures look and feel more natural, patients will still need to use a denture adhesive or paste to keep them in place. Otherwise, their artificial teeth can slip out of their proper place.  

Cost

Since dental implants cost more upfront than dentures, many patients choose to replace their missing or damaged teeth with dentures without further investigating dental implants as an option. However, with the additional costs for maintaining dentures, including adhesives, cleaning solutions, denture repairs, and replacement, dentures can be as expensive as dental implants in the long run.  

Hygiene

Dental implant care involves brushing at least twice a day, flossing once daily, and rinsing with an antimicrobial mouthwash. In other words, the daily care for dental implants is similar to the care of natural teeth. 

On the other hand, denture-wearers need to remove and rinse their artificial teeth after meals. Additionally, they should remove plaque and food particles by brushing their dentures at least once a day with a non-abrasive denture cleanser, mild dish soap, or liquid hand soap.  

Moreover, they should also clean off traces of leftover adhesive of the gums before brushing the natural teeth, cleaning the tongue, cheeks, and the roof of the mouth. Finally, they must soak their dentures in water or a mild denture-soaking solution overnight to keep them moist and maintain their shape.

Considering Dental Implants in Boca Raton?

Are you looking to find a dental practice that offers a comfortable and professional environment where you’ll receive personal and friendly care for all of your dental needs? Contact Boca Dental Group to make an appointment today.