Contemplating the decision between dental implants or dentures?

It’s no secret that the condition of our teeth influences our overall health, our appearance and our confidence.

While we generally associate the use of dentures with older people, the statistics say otherwise.

Whether you’re a senior citizen exploring alternatives to dentures, or you’ve suffered from illness or an accident which has resulted in damaged or missing teeth, we’re certain that you’re looking for a long-term fix.

Thankfully, advances in dentistry mean that nobody needs to go through life with missing teeth.

Dentures

Dentures, or false teeth, are available as a removable dental prosthesis, made to fit into the unique shape of your mouth. They can be made up of a full row of teeth – top, bottom or both – or act as partial fillers for missing teeth. Dentures are held in place by adhesives, clips, suction or, in some cases, the muscles within the mouth.

Dental Implants

Dental implants are a more permanent solution. The implant, usually a titanium screw, is positioned within and bonded to the bone of the jaw. This solid anchor acts as a support for crowns, bridges or even full dentures which snap firmly into place.

Both options offer the benefit of a natural-looking set of teeth which allow you to smile with confidence. However, there is more to it than aesthetics alone.

You can also read more here on independent advice for dental implants. 

The Benefits of Dental Implants

Some of the biggest concerns around the use of dentures can be resolved by the use of implants. Let’s take a look at a few.

If not fitted correctly and held securely in place with denture adhesive, dentures can fall out or slip out of place. While eating, talking or laughing, the last thing we need is for our teeth to slip out of our mouths!

Dental implants have overcome this potential embarrassment factor as there is very little, if any movement of the dentures once they have been clipped into place. The implant screws become part of the jaw and do not rely on paste to stay put. If you have chosen to use crowns over the implants, then natural-looking teeth are yours for the long-term.

Ill-fitting dentures can promote mouth infections and decay in the remaining teeth, especially if not cared for correctly. From a maintenance perspective, regular fitting from a reputable dentist is a necessity, along with cleaning solutions, repairs, adhesives and replacement.

Tooth decay and gum disease impact the surrounding bone of the jaw which can be eroded over time and can then no longer support the remaining teeth. Fewer teeth in the mouth allow the jaw itself to shrink making it more difficult to successfully fit dentures and resulting in a “sunken” look.

Something to Chew On

Of course, there’s pros and cons to every decision we make, and our own unique needs need to be met from a physical, psychological and financial perspective.

Largely speaking dental implants cost more initially than dentures, depending on the procedures that you need. However, most people find that dental implants more than make up their value with their long-term benefits.

For more information please contact Weedon on 01327 342412 or Rushden on 01933 312992 and we will be happy to help you