Dentures were long considered the proper treatment to replace teeth that were missing or failing. Today though, dental implants have become the gold standard. Dentures sit on the gums and are prone to slipping and pinching. Dental implants replace tooth roots, preventing jawbone loss and providing a secure, stable foundation for top quality replacement teeth. Here are five key benefits of dental implants.
1. Long-term costs
Although dentures cost less initially, dental implants are far less expensive over one’s lifetime. Dentures require relining and typically wear out in five to ten years. With proper care, dental implants can easily last for the rest of your life. If up front costs are a concern, we can use just two to four implants to stabilize a removable denture. We may even be able to convert your existing denture, meaning that you will only need to pay for the implants.
2. Aesthetics
Modern, high-end dentures can be quite aesthetically pleasing, but they tend to move around when talking, laughing, or chewing. A partial denture has a metal clasp or attachments that often show, while a full upper denture has a hard plastic palate. Dental implants remove all of these factors, making them a stronger and more aesthetic solution.
3. Comfort
Because they sit directly on the gums, dentures often cause uncomfortable slipping, rubbing, and pinching. If you eat chewy, tough, or crunchy foods, these issues may be even worse. Since dental implants fuse with the jawbone, they stabilize the replacement teeth, dramatically improving comfort.
4. Strength and stability
Many denture wearers complain that it is difficult or even impossible to enjoy such foods as taffy, steak, and corn on the cob. Dentures replace only about 25 percent of natural bite strength. With dental implants, you will enjoy your original bite strength, allowing you to eat your favorite foods with ease.
5. Future oral health
When teeth are missing, the body reshapes gum tissues and jawbone. Over time, denture wearers often develop wrinkles, premature aging, and a sunken look. This resorption will also make even the best-fitting dentures start to feel loose.
Dentures can also cause inflammation and chronic sores in the mouth from moving around. This can not only cause pain, but it can raise your risk for gum disease. Dental implants replace the tooth roots, halting and even reversing jawbone loss. They also anchor the replacement teeth, preventing them from rubbing and slipping.
Ready to Get Started?
If you are ready to start your dental health journey with a highly skilled and compassionate multi-specialty team, contact Midtown Dental Care Associates today at 212.685.4730 to learn more or schedule your first appointment.