Dr. Doyle Freano provides comprehensive options to replace missing and lost teeth. Whenever possible, he will recommend dental implants because the benefits of dental implants far outweigh those of dentures. Ultimately, it is up to you which option you choose based on your budget, restorative dental needs, and more.
The best treatment for you will depend on your personal oral health needs and cosmetic goals. Dr. Freano will evaluate your gums and teeth and present you with all of your treatment options. Dr. Freano will explain the pros and cons of each treatment and how they will benefit you.
What are Dentures?
Dentures are custom-made artificial teeth used to replace missing teeth. They are not permanent meaning you can remove them and put them back in when you need to. A dental lab will make them using impressions of your mouth. Dentures take some time to adjust to and require a lot of care. They may also need repair and replacement over time. Learn more about dentures.
Dental Implants vs Dentures
Cost – Most patients will find that the up-front cost of dentures is more affordable than getting dental implants. Although, many do not weigh the long-term costs of dentures when considering the options. You will not need to replace dental implants, and will not need special products and regular maintenance. Dental implants may last forever if you care for them properly and visit our Lexington, KY dental office regularly for teeth cleaning.
Appearance – Facial sagging is a possibility with a mouth void of teeth. Both dentures and dental implants support your facial structure, jaw alignment, and cheeks. Although, dental implants look more like natural teeth when compared to dentures. Dental Implants can be colored matched to your natural teeth as well.
Eating – Dentures will deliver about a 30-40% normal chewing function. Dental implants will deliver a 100% normal chewing function. The constant worry that your teeth may fall out while eating is not an issue with dental implants. Oftentimes, dentures may slip around or may not fit correctly leaving you with the worry of falling out.
Fit – With dentures, you may need to apply a gooey adhesive every time you wear them to hold them in your mouth. You won’t need to do this extra step with a dental implant because it is fixed into place and you can maintain it like a normal tooth.
Also, dentures may be a bit uncomfortable because they may cover a large portion of your mouth with plastic depending on the type of dentures you get. They may feel weird in your mouth and take some time to fit well because they are bulky.
Bone loss associated with tooth loss – If you’re missing a tooth or multiple teeth, that void can cause bone loss and deterioration in your jaw bone over time. Only dental implants help maintain jaw bone structure and stability. You will not need to worry about jaw deterioration or malformation when you get older.
Care – Dentures involve a lot of care. You must brush them daily and keep them moist. You can never let your dentures dry out and that can be a constant worry, especially when not wearing them. Dental implants require the same care as your natural teeth which eliminates a lot of extra work. You can brush them and floss them without worrying about damaging them.