Both dentures and dental implants are typical methods of replacing missing teeth. But everyone is different. Which is the best option for your case? Dr. Joseph Catanzano of Foxhall Smiles goes over getting dentures or dental implants in Washington DC.
What to Know About Dentures
Removable dentures are standard for replacing a full arch of missing teeth. However, partial dentures are able to be made as well. Dentures are made up of a metal and resin base with teeth made of plastic or dental ceramic. Two of the biggest perks of dentures are that you get your restoration faster than implants and they’re cheaper upfront as well.
But there are some downsides that come with dentures, too. While they’re cheaper upfront, you can incur extra costs over time. When you lose teeth, the jawbone starts to deteriorate. Since dentures don’t replace the tooth root, the jawbone continues to deteriorate over time. You’ll have to get your denture readjusted or replaced at least once as the fit changes.
Dentures only give you back around 30-40% of your bite function. They also need to be held in place with adhesive. You’ll have to eliminate certain foods from your diet and your restoration can slip or fall out while eating and speaking. Since they’re removable, you have to take them out every night and make sure they’re cleaned thoroughly.
The Benefits of Dental Implants
There are many reasons why dental implants are considered the gold standard of tooth replacement. Implants are made up of three different parts. First, a titanium post is placed in the jaw. Next, a piece called an abutment is attached to connect the post with the final restoration. The final restoration is usually a dental crown, but a fixed bridge or denture can also be used.
One of the biggest downsides of implants is the price. It’s expensive upfront compared to removable dentures. However, you don’t incur more costs over time. Implants are the only replacement option that replaces the tooth root too. This prevents the jawbone from deteriorating further and may even reverse some bone loss that’s already been done.
Dental implants also give you back 100% of your bite function. When the implant posts are placed, they require 3-6 months to heal, making them take longer for the final product. But this is what gives them the stability they’re known for. You don’t need to worry about adhesive or your restoration slipping or falling out. You can keep a normal diet and eat any food you’d like.
Implants are designed to look and feel the most natural. Even with advancements in dentistry, dentures are still bulky and hard to get used to. There’s no learning curve with dental implants. You won’t be able to tell that they aren’t your natural teeth! No extra maintenance is added either. Simply brush, floss, and visit the dentist regularly and implants will last for decades to come.
Getting Dental Implants in Washington DC
Do dental implants sound like the solution you need for your missing teeth? Call us or schedule an appointment online.