Whether you were born without certain teeth, had a traumatic accident, or had to have teeth removed for some other reason, missing teeth can be a significant source of worry and dread for people of all ages. Thankfully, there are many options these days to help address missing teeth. Two of the more popular options include dental implants and dentures. But how do you know which option is best for you?
Deciding Between Dental Implants and Dentures
Exploring the various advantages and disadvantages of dental implants versus dentures is important. The best choice differs for each individual. Here are several key considerations to keep in mind when comparing dental implants and dentures for solutions:
- Enhanced Aesthetic: Implants closely resemble and function like natural teeth, providing a more natural appearance. On the other hand, dentures may feel bulkier in comparison.
- Comfort: Dentures can slip and have loose affixations on the gums. This can cause painful and irritated sores in the mouth and problems chewing. Whereas dental implants are fixated on one spot, so they are much less likely to irritate and rub the gums.
- Long-Term Oral Health: Dental implants stimulate the jawbone through the forces generated during chewing, aiding in the preservation of bone and preventing gum tissue from receding. This also reduces the risk of further tooth loss. In contrast, dentures lack this effect, and, in certain instances, ill-fitting restorations can even accelerate bone loss.
- Durability: Well-maintained dental implants can endure for many years and, in some cases, a lifetime. This can lead to lower long-term costs, as compared to dentures, which require relatively frequent replacements, sometimes depending on how well they are cared for.
- Oral Hygiene: Dentures require thorough daily cleaning, whereas implants can be maintained through regular brushing and flossing, similar to caring for natural teeth.
- Insurance Coverage: Dentures are typically covered by most dental insurance plans, however, dental implants are often categorized as a cosmetic procedure. Consequently, the associated costs for implants are usually not covered. Instead, they may need to be paid out of your own pocket.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dentures and Dental Implants
Can Dentures Be Made into Implants?
Unfortunately, dentures can't be made into implants. Implants are placed into the jawbone to anchor and support artificial teeth. However, you might be able to have implants placed beneath existing dentures to help stabilize and support them. This is typically only an option if your current dentures are otherwise in excellent condition.
What is the Success Rate of Dental Implants?
The success rate of dental implants varies from one patient to the next. For healthy patients with good oral hygiene, they are predictably successful, with reported success rates at or above 90-95 percent.
Let Midtown Dental Care Associates Improve Your Smile
Ready to find the perfect solution to your missing teeth? We offer several different cosmetic dentistry services to give you the straighter smile you have been looking for. Give us a call at 212.685.4730 or contact us to learn more about your options and schedule an appointment today.