Tooth loss is a common concern that can cause a variety of oral and overall health concerns. The good news is that there are several tooth restoration options. The two most common options at Parkway Dental Care are dentures and dental implants.
Both options offer unique benefits and considerations. In this article, we’ll explore these options, including the factors to consider when making your decision.
Dental implants are titanium posts/screws designed to mimic the tooth root. Placement of the implants requires invasive oral surgery. Once placed, the jawbone will heal around and fuse with the implants, creating a stable base for the replacement teeth.
There are two primary types of dental implants: endosteal and subperiosteal. The endosteal implants are inserted into the jawbone, while the subperiosteal implants are inserted into the gum and sit on or above the jawbone.
A single implant can be used to replace a single tooth and multiple implants can be used to replace up to an entire arch.
Dentures are removable prosthetic devices designed to replace missing teeth. They are designed to sit on top of the gums and must be removed every night for cleaning and to allow the mouth to rest. While effective, dentures can be uncomfortable and inconvenient.
There are two primary types of dentures: Partial and Complete.
Partial dentures are designed to replace some missing teeth. Complete dentures are designed to replace an entire arch.
Criteria | Dental Implants | Dentures |
Aesthetics | Dental implants offer a natural appearance, feel, and functionality. | Dentures often look artificial. |
Durability | Dental implants are known to last a lifetime with proper care and maintenance. | Dentures usually must be replaced every 5 to 10 years depending on wear and tear. |
Maintenance | Dental implants mimic natural teeth, making them much easier to clean and care for. | Dentures must be removed daily for cleaning/soaking and often require relining. |
Bone Health | Dental implants stimulate the jawbone, preventing deterioration. | Dentures may contribute to jawbone deterioration. |
Comfort | Dental implants are stable and secure with no slipping or irritation. | Dentures sit on and rub against the gums, which can cause discomfort. |
Cost | Dental implants cost more upfront but have lower maintenance costs and don’t require replacement. | Dentures are typically more affordable upfront but maintenance and replacement costs are higher. |
There are several factors to consider when deciding between dental implants and dentures, including:
Missing teeth can impact all areas of your life, making tooth restoration critical for your oral, overall, and even mental health. The decision is a very personal one, but the team at Parkway Dental Care will work with you to help you decide. They can give you all of the information you need to make an informed decision.
If you have experienced tooth loss, schedule your consultation with the team at Parkway Dental Care today in Kissimmee, FL. They have the experience and expertise to help you with all of your dental needs. They will be able to assess your current condition, as well as evaluate your needs and expectations to determine the best course of action.
If you have any questions about tooth replacement at Parkway Dental Care, we will be glad to help. Our team is highly trained and skilled in dental restorations and believes that it is important for patients to be informed. Below are a few of the most common questions that we are asked:
Dental implants require invasive oral surgery. However, the procedure is done under local anesthesia, which minimizes discomfort. Sedation is an option for patients who struggle with anxiety or are unable to sit still for an extended period.
Dental implants are a long-lasting solution for tooth loss. Many patients find that, with proper care and maintenance, implants can last a lifetime. In some cases, the crown may require replacement after about 20 years.
The initial healing period lasts a few days to a week, depending on your body’s ability to heal. During this time, you’ll want to stick with soft foods to avoid irritating the surgical site. After this time, you can gradually transition back to your normal diet.
Dentures sit on top of the gums and jawbone, requiring them for support. Therefore, patients with significant jawbone loss or gum issues may find that dentures are a less suitable option.
Dental implants are an effective solution to replace any number of teeth from a single tooth to a full set, depending on your degree of tooth loss. The number of implants required varies based on your dental restoration plan.