Getting Dentures Vs. Dental Implants

Both dentures and dental implants are popular forms of tooth replacement. But how do you know which one is the right choice for you? Dr. Melanie Andrews of Plantation Road Dental Care discusses getting both dental implants and dentures in Destrehan, LA.affordable dentures in Destrehan, Louisiana

All About Dentures

Destrehan, Louisiana dentures are usually used to replace an entire arch of missing teeth. However, there are partial denture options as well. They’re made out of a resin and metal base with plastic or ceramic teeth. Some perks of dentures include that they’re cheaper upfront and you’re able to get your final restoration faster than you would with dental implants because they don’t have a surgical element.

But dentures do come with a list of drawbacks. For starters, while they may not cost much upfront, they’re more likely to incur additional costs as time goes on. When you lose teeth, your jawbone starts to deteriorate. Since dentures don’t replace the tooth root, that deterioration continues over time. You’ll have to readjust or replace the dentures when they start to fit uncomfortably.

Dentures only give you back 30-40% of your bite function. You’ll have to get rid of certain foods in your diet. Since they require adhesive to stay in the mouth, they can slip or fall out when you’re eating or speaking. They’re removable and have to be taken out every night to be cleaned thoroughly.

Dental Implants: What to Know

Dental implants are made up of three different parts. First, titanium implant posts are placed in the jawbone. Next, a piece called an abutment to attach the implant post to the final restoration. The final restoration is usually a dental crown. However, dental implants can also support a fixed denture or dental bridge.

The biggest drawbacks of dental implants are their cost and how long they take. But with implants, you don’t have future costs. Implants are the only tooth replacement option that replaces the tooth root. This prevents your jawbone from deteriorating further, and can even help reverse some of the deterioration that’s occurred already.

Dental implants also give you back 100% of your bite function. The implant posts fuse with your jawbone, taking about 3-6 months to fully heal. This is what takes so long with implants. But it’s also what gives them the stability they’re known for. You don’t have to worry about adhesive, changing your diet, or your restoration slipping and falling out.

Even with advancements in dental technology, dentures are bulky and take a while to get used to. They don’t look or feel like natural teeth. Implants do, particularly when dental crowns are used as the final restoration. Since they aren’t removable, you don’t have additional maintenance. Just brush, floss, and visit the dentist regularly and implants will last you decades!

Getting Dental Implants and Dentures in Destrehan, Louisiana

Are one of these options right to replace your missing teeth? Call us or schedule an appointment online.