Nearly 70% of adults in the US between the ages of 35 and 44 have one or more missing teeth. Missing teeth not only cause considerable embarrassment, but can also impact the health of neighboring teeth. Luckily tooth replacement options, like dentures and dental implants, are available that can restore the tooth loss and boost your confidence. This blog explores the pros and cons of each option.
Dentures
Pros
- Best for people who have weak gums or significant bone loss
- Less expensive than dental implants
- Usually covered by insurance
- Procedure to create dentures is non-invasive (no surgery required)
- Easy to modify, if additional teeth are lost
Cons
- Can slip out of place while eating or talking
- If aren't fitted properly, dentures can cause mouth sores, infection of neighboring teeth, and difficultly speaking
- Cannot be worn overnight
- Do not look as natural as dental implants
- Certain foods cannot be eaten with dentures
- Typically only last 3-6 year before they need replacement
Dental Implants
Pros
- Long-lasting (20 years or more)
- Look and feel like natural teeth
- Fused with the jawbone, so will not move out of place
- Better fit than regular dentures
- Require same maintenance as regular teeth (daily brushing and flossing)
- Promotes healthy jawbone and prevents jawbone deterioration
- Patient can enjoy favorite food that are sticky and crunchy
Cons
- More expensive than traditional dentures
- May not be covered by insurance
- Not suitable for people with unhealthy mouths or inadequate bone tissue
- The whole procedure takes longer than getting regular dentures
- Procedure requires minor surgery
Ultimately, you would need to work with your dentist to determine the best option for your specific case. Interested in learning more about dental implants? Call to schedule a consultation with us (925) 703-7093 or request a consultation online.