What’s the Difference Between Dentures and Implants?

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dentures and implants

Dentures and implants are both ways to replace missing teeth, but they’re very different from one another. A denture is a removable piece that can be taken out and cleaned, whereas an implant is a natural-looking tooth replacement that’s permanently placed directly into the bone beneath your gums. An implant looks like a small peg that has been inserted into the jawbone. It’s designed to support a new tooth or bridge much like traditional dentures do, but with one major difference: Implants are anchored directly into your jawbone. This gives them a much firmer foundation than dentures, which rest on top of your gums and are prone to shifting or feeling loose after eating.

How do Dentures Work?

Dentures are two false teeth that are held in place by an artificial gum. They can replace all of your teeth — or just some of them. A dentist will decide which teeth and which partial dentures you need to replace. Dentures are usually made out of a synthetic (plastic) resin and are held in place by your gums. The false teeth are connected to the gums with a retainer that’s held in place with a daily cleaning and brushing routine. Most dentures will last about 10 years. Most denture wearers say their false teeth are comfortable after a couple of weeks of getting used to them. You may find that artificial teeth take a bit of getting used to if you’ve never had a set before.

How much pain is involved with getting dentures? When you’re first fitted for new dentures, it’s normal to experience minor irritation, which should fade as your mouth becomes accustomed to them. The period of pain varies. If you’ve previously worn dentures and now have a new set it may take longer. Dentures remain in place with a close fit along the underlying gum as well as the bone tissue. The layer of saliva between the gums and the denture help keep this oral health device in place. The larger the surface area, the stronger the seal.

What’s the Difference Between a Denture and an Implant?

Dentures and implants are removable teeth that are held in place by your gums. Implants are synthetic teeth that are permanently inserted into the jawbone. The basic goal of both types of dental work is the same: to replace missing teeth. But they achieve that goal in very different ways. Dentures are supported by your gums alone, while implants are supported by the jawbone (where teeth naturally reside). That makes implants more stable, persistent, and long-lasting. Implants are usually placed in the lower jaw. There they’re inserted into the jawbone — which is called osseointegration — and allowed to heal for several months.

How Are Implants Different From Dentures?

Dentures and implants will likely have to be replaced from time to time, as your mouth and jaw change or your gums shrink. And since they’re held in place by your gums alone, Dentures and implants will likely be unstable for long-term use. Implants, on the other hand, are permanently placed in your jawbone. They don’t rely on your gums for support, so they’re far less likely to slip or loosen than dentures. And as opposed to dental work that’s done once and then replaced as needed, implants are a single-step procedure that offers both immediate and long-term benefits. Dentures can look and feel unnatural, while implants can be made to match the color and shape of your teeth so that no one knows you’re wearing a dental device.

They are full arches of artificial teeth that replace the patient’s missing teeth. Dentures and implants are a lower-cost option than dental implants, but this also comes with more maintenance. Dentures and implants, on the other hand, are small titanium posts that are surgically implanted in the jaw. The procedure for fitting dentures is non-invasive.

Benefits of Implants over Dentures

– Support: Implants are anchored in the bone, whereas dentures rest atop the gum. This can help prevent bone loss that commonly occurs with dentures. – Durability: Implants are likely to outlast dentures. – Fixed Position: The natural fit of implants can prevent shifting and misplacement, particularly when compared to dentures. – Comfort: Healthy gums can shrink and contract, which can make dentures feel loose. And unlike a set of false teeth, implants don’t cause any changes in the surrounding tissue. – Appearance: The natural look and feel of implants can help them blend in with your teeth and make you forget that you’re wearing dentures. – Simplicity: Dentures require daily care and cleaning, while implants can go months between cleanings. – Cost: Both procedures come with a hefty price tag. But the long-term benefits of implants likely make them a better value than dentures.

Dentures and implants provide a better quality of life compared to the traditional denture. They are the best option for fully replacing the function and appearance of natural teeth. If you are missing one or more natural teeth, this may result in an improper bite in addition to difficulty in eating and talking. Other side effects include headaches, muscle pain, tooth sensitivity and even Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMJD). Usually made of titanium, the implants can support replacement teeth such as individual crowns, multiple tooth bridges and full dentures. Dental implants are recommended for stability, strength, chewing power and durability. Luckily, Dentures and implants are just as effective and long-lasting in older age. Dental implants often change older people’s lives for the better, giving them improved physical health and more confidence. No age is too old for dental implants.

Things to Consider Before Replacing Teeth with Implants

– Age: Younger patients are generally better candidates for implants because their bones are normally stronger and heal faster. But older patients may also be good candidates for implants if they’ve maintained good oral health. – Health: Patients who have had chronic diseases or have a history of abnormal healing will likely have a harder time healing from this type of surgery. And people with certain allergies or immune system disorders, such as diabetes, may be advised against implants. – Teeth: If you’re missing one or more teeth, you may want to consider implants in conjunction with dentures. – Budget: The cost of this procedure varies widely by location, but implants can be quite expensive.

The specialist should check if the bone, gum and other teeth are healthy enough before implant treatment. If the bone and gum at the implant site are not healthy or sufficient, the addition of bone and gum may be required. It is only by doing that, can the implants be safely placed to ensure their longevity. To have implants placed, a patient must go through oral surgery. So, the patient must be in good physical health. They must also have adequate bone in the jaw to support the implants. If they have suffered from chronic illnesses like diabetes or leukemia, they may not be a good candidate for dental implant surgery.

Bottom line

If you’ve lost teeth but aren’t a candidate for dentures, implants may be the right choice for you. They offer a long-term solution that comes with few of the downsides of wearing dentures. Before deciding on dental implants, be sure to discuss your options with a dentist. You can also learn more by reading up on this dental procedure.

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