Tooth loss can be uncomfortable, but luckily, there are effective dental solutions available to restore the function and appearance of your smile. Two of the most popular options for replacing missing teeth are dentures and dental implants. To decide which option is best for your needs, explore the helpful guide below.

A Brief Guide to Dentures & Dental Implants

Dentures

For dental patients missing several teeth as a result of trauma, decay, or gum disease, dentures tend to be the preferred solution. They are available in both full and partial options and are custom-made to fit against your gums and remaining natural teeth. While dentures must be replaced every five to eight years, they are generally more affordable than implants. With that being said, proper maintenance is essential to maximizing the lifespan of any false teeth. 

One consideration to bear in mind is that this solution is removable, so it won’t feel exactly like natural teeth. Nonetheless, some patients enjoy the flexibility of being able to remove their false teeth when not in use. It is important to wear them as often as you find comfortable, however, as there must be a prosthetic in place to prevent gum recession and bone loss from occurring.  

Dental Implants

If you’re missing one or several teeth, dental implants are an ideal solution for replacing them. The process of having them inserted is more invasive, as it requires a metal post to be surgically fused to the jawbone. A false tooth is then mounted to the post, resulting in a restoration that looks and functions exactly like a real tooth. While this option costs more than dentures, many patients are still drawn to it because it is the closest solution to natural teeth available.

One significant advantage of implants is that they can last a lifetime, thereby lowering their cost in the long run. They do not require replacement, and you’ll care for them just as you would your regular teeth. Implants also keep bone tissue and gums in optimal health by preventing recession.

Are you weighing your restorative dentistry options to replace one or more missing teeth in Summerville or Fairmount, GA? If so, contact the office of Dr. Richard R. Miller Jr. DDS. Dr. Miller and his team of oral health professionals offer comprehensive services to local patients, including dentures and dental implants as well as general dentistry treatments. They have you covered for the personalized, high-quality care you and your smile deserve. Contact the Summerville office by calling (706) 857-4741 or the Fairmount location at (706) 337-3347. Or, visit their website for a full list of services.