Are you suffering from tooth loss? Are you wondering whether dentures or dental implants are the right option for you? Both options are used by dentists to address the issue of deteriorating or lost teeth in order to restore the natural appearance and function of your teeth and smile. To get started in answering the question “Are implants or dentures better?”, let’s talk about the pros and cons of each one. Then we can answer the question, “How do I know whether dental implants or dentures are right for me?”

DENTAL IMPLANTS

What are dental implants? A dental implant is essentially a prosthetic tooth root that allows for a permanent tooth replacement. All in all, a dental implant consists of three parts: the post (usually made of titanium), the abutment and the crown. The post is the substitute for the root of your tooth. The abutment, or connector, connects the crown to the post, while the crown is custom made to match your remaining teeth.

The benefits of dental implants include:

• Same oral hygiene routine as natural teeth

• Natural appearance

• Prevent bone loss and jaw deterioration

• Preserve the structure and stability of remaining natural teeth

• Reduce and prevent facial sagging

• Allow for normal eating and drinking habits

• Restore the ability to speak clearly

• No chance of slipping

• Can last a lifetime

Some of the cons of dental implants include:

• More expensive than dentures

• Require invasive procedure

• Require sufficient bone density and healthy tissue

DENTURES

What are dentures? Dentures are removable, artificial teeth intended to replace missing teeth and surrounding tissues. Full dentures replace all your natural teeth, and partial dentures allow for replacing only some teeth while leaving your healthy, natural teeth intact. Dentures are custom-fitted to your mouth and provide the appearance of your natural teeth in order to restore the look and feel of a healthy smile.

The benefits of dentures include:

• Removable, which allows for proper cleaning

• Natural appearance

• Restore the ability to speak clearly

• Reduce facial sagging

• Cost-effective

Some of the cons of dentures include:

• Possibility of slipping

• Sores forming on the gums

• Do not prevent jaw deterioration

• May need to be replaced as jaw deteriorates

• Higher maintenance than dental implants

Both dentures and dental implants have pros and cons, but dental implants do provide a more permanent, durable solution for tooth loss. The answer to the question “which option is best for me?” is best answered by your dentist after evaluating your oral health and answering questions you may have related to your specific case. Some factors you should consider include:

• Does your jaw have the bone density required to support dental implants?

• Do you still have some healthy, natural teeth?

• Are you comfortable with the maintenance required for dentures?

• Do you need a long-term solution for tooth loss?

• Is comfort and convenience a high priority for you?

• Can you safely undergo the invasive procedure required for implants?

If you are looking for a dentist in The Woodlands or Spring, TX, who can provide a thorough evaluation and an honest opinion of your oral health and what tooth loss solution is best for you, call WoodSprings Dentistry today. Our dentists, Drs. Samantha and James Tejada, provide patients with both dentures and dental implants, and they are happy to answer any questions you may have about dentures, dental implants and your oral health needs and goals.

To book an appointment at WoodSprings Dentistry, call our office at 832-930-7795 or request an appointment online.