Dentures have been a dental solution to missing teeth for hundreds of years and have served us well. The newer dental implant is gradually replacing dentures as the most effective treatment in many situations.
There will of course be situations where one procedure is more suitable than the other. But generally speaking, which is best, the old timer or the new treatment?
Appearance
A high quality set of dentures made and fit by experts look great. The same can be said for dental implants. The skill of the dentist involved makes a real difference as the form, fit and appearance of both solutions. Much depends on their ability to choose the right size, shape and color in the situation.
A well-designed set of dentures can look great, but if they move around or cause problems with speech then they aren’t ideal. No such problems with dental implants!
Comfort
Ask anyone who wears dentures and they will say that once you get the right fit, dentures are fine to wear. However, they do involve some discomfort when worn for long periods. They can also cause sore spots on gums, move around and reduce bite force.
No such discomfort with dental implants. One the initial procedure is complete, there is no discomfort at all. The added advantage of implants is that they encourage bone mass to remain, which further supports surrounding teeth. This can affect long-term comfort.
Convenience
Dentures are a convenient solution to a range of dental issues, but they do need special attention to maintain them. They need to be removed often, stored somewhere safe and cleaned using special cleaning solutions. You’re also limited with what you can eat as food can get trapped underneath dentures causing discomfort.
Once the procedure is complete, wearing dental implants is exactly like having natural teeth. They can be cleaned and maintained the same way as other teeth and there are no restrictions on what you can eat.
Longevity
Dental veneers are by far the most effective treatment in many situations and can offer a lifetime of service if looked after properly. One of the most significant advantages they have over dentures is that promotion of continued bone growth around the site of the tooth. Bone loss can cause long-term problems in some circumstances, which can be avoided with an implant.
As we mentioned at the beginning, when done right, dentures can offer a cost-effective solution to a range of dental issues. In some circumstances they are still the primary treatment we offer and done right can look great and solve a multitude of problems. However, in many cases, dental implants are a far superior procedure. It really is down to each specific case as to which procedure is best.
If you’re considering dentures or dental implants, contact Aesthetic Family Dentistry today for a consultation.
