Implants vs Dentures: What to Consider When Choosing

Using Bridges and Dentures to Replace Teeth

If you’ve lost a tooth or needed to have one or more teeth pulled, you’ll want to replace those teeth with implants or dentures. You have several choices in replacement teeth.

Bridges

Bridges use false replacement teeth to fill the gaps between natural and missing teeth. Bridges are designed and specially made to look natural, last for a long time, and work almost as well as natural teeth. Bridges use anchors that connect the dental appliance to neighboring teeth.

Dentures

If you need several or all of your teeth replaced, a denture can be made. Dentures look natural and help people who have lost their teeth eat and talk more normally. Dentures are created from acrylic resin and work well for many individuals who need teeth replaced. They are removable for easy cleaning.

Using bridges and dentures have their benefits. Some people cannot have dental implants for medical reasons. Additionally, bridges and dentures remain the less expensive choice when new teeth are needed, plus they are covered by dental insurance in many cases.

Dental Implants: What are they?

Another type of tooth replacement is the dental implant. A dental implant will feel more like a real tooth and the implant will function more like a real tooth. A permanently replaced tooth allows you to eat nearly anything you’d like. By contrast, while dentures and bridges work well and their prices are lower than dental implants, they can become loose and may limit the types of food you can eat.

The Dental Implant Procedure

Dental implants may be done in one or two sessions. A specially trained dentist will surgically place an anchor in your jaw. In about three to six months, the jaw’s bone grows around this anchor, holding it in place. At this point, the crown, which looks like a tooth, can be put atop the anchor.

Your dentist can help you decide if a dental implant is a good choice. Dental implants are more costly than bridges and dentures. You’ll also need to check with your dental insurance to see if it covers the procedure.

Whether you choose implants or dentures, make an appointment to see us today. We will assist you in selecting the right tooth replacement options for your needs.