Tooth loss impacts your oral health, but it can also diminish your smile and reduce your confidence. Fortunately, there are a few treatment options in this case. Depending on your situation, dental implants or dentures might be a good choice, each with advantages your dentist can review with you. Here’s a closer look at the differences to get you started.

What Are Dental Implants?

Implants are used to replace one or more missing teeth. This treatment is considered a lasting solution since implants are placed directly into the jaw bone. A metal rod is implanted into the jaw. Then comes an abutment, which is where the artificial tooth is placed. An artificial tooth is cared for the same as natural teeth, via brushing and flossing. 

While convenient, not all people are good candidates for implants. It’s important to have healthy jaw bone density for the metal rod to fuse properly. If bone tissue is lacking, the implant won’t be stable. In this case, the dentist may perform a bone graft, which builds up tissue so it can properly anchor the implant. 

What Are Dentures?

When tooth loss is significant, dentures might be a better option. Dentures are a type of dental prosthesis that can be removed from the mouth at the discretion of the wearer. Dentures are customized for each patient, which ensures they can be worn comfortably. And unlike implants, there’s no need for surgery. 

However, not all people are comfortable wearing dentures. While they have advanced quite a bit in recent years, it can still take a period of adjustment to get used to them. Proper care, including overnight cleaning, is also important to keep dentures intact. Many dentists recommend replacing dentures every eight years or so, so their longevity doesn’t match that of implants.  

A dentist can help you decide between these two options if you’re unsure. Larry G. Hubbard, DDS offers both dental implants and dentures to patients in Statesboro, GA. The process starts with a comprehensive dental exam to assess your oral health. From there, a treatment plan will be recommended that best suits your needs. Call (912) 764-9891 today to schedule your appointment, then visit the website for more helpful patient information.