If you’re insecure about your appearance because you have missing teeth, there are several options for restoring your smile. Two of the most popular are dental implants and dentures. Below is some information to help you learn more about the benefits of each.

Dental Implants

Dental implants are metal posts or frames that are surgically inserted into the jawbone, beneath the gums, to hold replacement teeth in place. Once inserted, they are just as strong as and function like regular teeth. Because they are placed one by one, they are a perfect option for people who have only a few missing teeth instead of an entire arch.

Dentists may also recommend the procedure as a restorative option for relatively young patients, as the implants can help prevent jaw disintegration, gum recession, and the sunken-mouth look that occurs as a result of both.

Dentures

Dentures are removable replacement teeth. Rather than being anchored to the jaw, they either sit on top of the gums as full dentures or connect to existing teeth as partial dentures. While they’re less expensive than dental implants and don’t require invasive surgery, they don’t feel as natural and aren’t as secure.

Some people find this to be an advantage, however, because they are easy to remove and clean. Dentures also tend to be an ideal option for people who have to replace multiple teeth at once.

If you think dentures or dental implants might improve your smile, contact Jim S. Caudill, DMD, PSC. Since 1975, Dr. Caudill and his trained team have provided patients in and around Hazard, KY, with first-rate dental and oral hygiene care—including general, cosmetic, and pediatric dentistry. He also offers orthodontics and Invisalign® services, along with teeth whitening treatments, routine exams and cleanings, and more. Visit the office’s website to learn more, and call (606) 436-3432 to schedule an appointment.