If you’re missing multiple teeth, the dentist will likely recommend dentures or implants to restore your bite, facial structure, and dental health. These replacement options have many differences and unique benefits to consider. Here’s a closer look at each to help you decide on the best choice for your needs.

Understanding Implants & Dentures

Dentures 

Dentists customize dentures to fit your mouth and fill spaces where you’re missing teeth. Full dentures replace the entire set of teeth on the upper or lower jaw, while partial dentures replace a section of missing teeth and feature a retainer-like acrylic base to hold them in place.

Individuals temporarily adhere their dentures to the gums with a powder or paste to keep the teeth in place while eating and speaking. Every day, you must remove dentures to brush and floss them. Most need to soak overnight in a whitening solution to keep them smelling fresh and prevent the materials from drying out and cracking. 

Some people find dentures cumbersome and have trouble keeping them in place. Others may develop a bad habit of not remembering to wear them. Dentures are less expensive than implants but require replacement every seven to 15 years. They can also lead to bone loss due to a lack of jawbone density.

Implants

Dental implants are metal rods that dentists screw into the jaw to create a more permanent solution. You may get standalone implants with a realistic crown attached or use these fixed points to hold a bridge or partial dentures. This option feels natural, and you don’t need to worry about avoiding certain foods that might detach dentures from the gums.

Implants feel like bone and are indistinguishable from your natural teeth because the dentist matches their coloring to the rest of your smile. They fit in with your usual dental routine of brushing and flossing twice daily and don’t require special treatment.

Dental implants are more expensive than dentures, but they offer better value because they last for many years and require minimal maintenance. Additionally, they won’t fall out mid-meal or -conversation and provide a natural foundation for your lips and cheeks that won’t lower bone density.

Those interested in getting implants or dentures should contact Judy Walker, DDS, in Guilford County, NC. Dr. Walker has more than 25 years of industry experience offering preventive dentistry like checkups, periodontal disease treatment, and cosmetic updates. Call the Greensboro-area practice at (336) 275-1472 or visit the website for information on their top-notch facility and passionate staff who make people of all ages feel at ease.