There are several options to consider when replacing missing teeth. Dentures and dental implants are the two most common solutions. The two differ in longevity, comfort, confidence while wearing, and effect on your pocketbook.
Dentures
Many people with missing teeth wear conventional upper and lower dentures or partial dentures and many are unhappy with them. Lower dentures never fit or feel like natural teeth. They become loose fitting due to shrinking gum tissue, which then causes irritation to the mouth, sores and pain. Lower dentures also restrict your ability to eat or talk as you had with your natural teeth. The only relief is in using messy dental adhesive to improve the fit.
Upper dentures are a bit different. They are easier to wear because the suction in upper palate (roof of the mouth) helps keep the denture in place. But having the palate covered can also reduce the taste of foods that you are eating. Sores and pain in chewing and talking are quite frequent as the gum tissue shrinks, and many people suffer from having to use dental adhesive with upper dentures as well.
Removable partial dentures might be used when only several teeth are missing. A partial denture anchors to the teeth on either side of the empty area using a metal clasp. This can be very damaging to these teeth. Removable partial dentures can also be hard on the gum tissue when chewing and talking.
The advantage of upper and lower dentures is that they can be constructed quickly and they initially cost less than implants. They may last a lifetime, but over the years with aging, new sets need to be made to fit the changing gum tissue and chewing surfaces of the teeth in the dentures.
Dental Implants – A Better Solution
With the introduction of dental implants, the need to suffer with uncomfortable restorations has been eliminated. As our life span has been increasing, the need for some type of highly functional dental replacement system has become increasingly important. Dental implants are permanent dental replacements that are both natural looking and very functional. Implants look much better and feel better, and offer the same force for biting as natural teeth. If you are a non-smoker with good oral hygiene habits, dental implants should last for a lifetime.
Dental implants are a major investment and the procedure can be time consuming. As with any complex surgery, there is always the risk of complication even after a thorough examination and consultation prior to care. But dental implants are a dependable and life long solution to missing teeth. Compared with dentures, which can be loose and unstable, implants provide a permanent solution that is both functional and natural in appearance, giving you the confidence to smile and show your pearly whites.
Summary
Both dentures and dental implants have progressed rapidly over the years. Many people are finding that dental implants are the most desirable solution for missing teeth. Implants allow for a new found confidence while smiling, far exceeding the comfort and confidence found with dentures.