Why Choose Dental Implants Over Dentures?

Living with a missing tooth can be a source of discomfort and embarrassment. Fortunately, modern dentistry has provided us with solutions that not only fill the gap but also restore function and aesthetics. Dental implants and dentures are two primary solutions for a missing tooth.
 

Understanding Dental Implants

Dental implants are a permanent solution to the problem of a missing tooth. They consist of three parts: the implant, the abutment, and the crown. The implant, made of titanium, is surgically anchored into your jawbone, acting as the root of the tooth. The abutment connects the implant and the crown, which is the visible part of the tooth.
 

What sets dental implants apart from other missing tooth solutions is that they integrate with your jawbone, providing a stable foundation for the crown. This process, known as osseointegration, takes several months, but results in a solid, durable solution that functions much like a natural tooth.
 

Insights into Dentures

Dentures have been around for centuries and have undergone significant improvements over time. They are removable appliances that can replace one, several, or all of your teeth. There are two main types: complete and partial dentures.
 

Complete dentures are used when all the teeth are missing, while partial dentures are used when some natural teeth remain. They consist of a gum-colored base made of acrylic or metal, which holds the artificial teeth.
 

However, they do not prevent bone loss like dental implants. Over time, as the jawbone changes shape, dentures may need to be adjusted or replaced to maintain a good fit.
 

The Advantages of Dental Implants Over Dentures

When it comes to choosing between dental implants and dentures, many factors come into play. However, there are several key advantages of dental implants over dentures.
 

Firstly, dental implants provide a more natural feel and function. Because they are anchored in the jawbone, they mimic the function of natural teeth more closely. You can eat, speak, and smile with confidence, without worrying about the implant shifting or slipping.
 

Secondly, with proper care, dental implants can last a lifetime. They are resistant to decay and do not require special maintenance beyond regular brushing and flossing.
 

Lastly, dental implants help preserve the health of your jawbone and surrounding teeth. They stimulate bone growth and prevent bone loss, and unlike dentures, they don't put pressure on the surrounding teeth.
 

Enhancing Your Smile with Dental Implants

Dental implants offer several advantages over dentures when it comes to treating a missing tooth. They provide superior comfort, function, and aesthetics, and can last a lifetime with proper care. It's important to discuss your options with your dentist to find the solution that best meets your needs.
 

To learn more on why to choose dental implants over dentures, speak with our professionals at Allen & Washington Dental Office at our office in Pasadena, California. Please call (626) 699-9770 to schedule an appointment today.