If you’ve had tooth extractions or lost teeth to trauma, filling in the gaps left behind prevents dental shifting and restores function and appearance. Dental implants and dentures are the main options for filling in gaps, but several factors influence which one is best for you. Below is a guide to help you make an informed decision.

Implants

Dental implants are permanent and durable. When healed, they look, feel, and function just like your other teeth, so you only need to perform a normal dental hygiene routine. With proper care, implants can last a lifetime. Even if the implant crown gets damaged, another one can be made and installed quickly and affordably.

Implants are a surgical procedure designed to treat one gap, so they aren’t ideal if you’re missing multiple teeth around your mouth. Getting one requires several appointments for the consultation, implanting the titanium post, and applying the crown. In some cases, a bone graft is required before the post can be implanted. The entire process can be lengthy since you’ll need to take time to heal. Because it’s a surgery, the cost is higher, and you may need to miss work to recover.

Dentures

Dentures are convenient if you’re missing more than a few teeth, and they’re available in partial or full sets specially made to fit your mouth. As a non-surgical option, they’re more affordable and less invasive than implants. Dentures are removable, allowing you to use them as desired. The process is much shorter than with implants—a matter of weeks instead of months—and they can last for years with appropriate care.

Dentures are higher maintenance than dental implants since they require frequent washing and special products for cleaning and adhering. They can be susceptible to breaks, especially if they’re dropped or allowed to dry out.

They pose a slight risk of gum irritation and infection if they break, don’t fit well, or don’t get cleaned. If they do break, you usually have to order a new set, which can take more time and money than replacing a broken crown. They also may not resemble natural teeth as closely as implants because of the artificial gum tissue and sometimes visible metal.

If you still aren’t sure whether you need dental implants or dentures, speak with a friendly dentist at Family First Dentistry in Anchorage, AK. They’ll go over the options in more detail and advise on the ideal option for you. They offer comprehensive care to patients of all ages, including same-day crowns, sedation dentistry, and walk-in emergency dental treatment. Learn more about their implants online, and call (907) 562-2820 to schedule a consultation.