Dental Implants or Dentures: What's Right For Me?

Modern dentistry has made it possible for people with missing teeth to restore their oral health functions and regain their confidence to smile. But, with so many options out there, it can be challenging to choose the right solution for you. Should you opt for implants or dentures to restore your oral health? 

Hopefully, this article will help make this decision a bit easier. 
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What Are Dental Implants?

Dental implants are artificial teeth designed to work, look, and feel exactly like natural teeth. That's because the implant is inserted into the jawbone, where it mimics the root of a natural tooth. 
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How Do Dental Implants Work?

The process of getting dental implants involves several steps:

• Consultation and planning: First l, your dentist will examine your mouth, take x-rays, and determine if you are a good candidate for dental implants.

• Surgical placement of the implants: If you are a good candidate, the dentist will place the implant into the jawbone. If you have gum disease or insufficient bone density, you will need to address these issues first before you can get an implant. 

• Healing and integration: The implant will fuse the jawbone and surrounding tissue during a process called osseointegration. This can take several months.

• Attachment of the replacement teeth: Once the implant is fully integrated into the jawbone, the dentist will place the abutment and the crown to complete the implant. 
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Pros and Cons of Dental Implants

Dental implants have several advantages:

• They are permanent and do not need to be removed for cleaning.
• They function and feel like natural teeth.
• They stimulate the jawbone and prevent bone loss.

However, dental implants also have some drawbacks:

• They are more expensive than dentures.
• The procedure is quite complex and lengthy.
• They require a longer recovery period. 
• The success of the implants depends on the health of the jawbone and the ability of the bone to fuse with the implants.
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What Are Dentures?

Dentures are removable artificial teeth used to replace missing teeth. Depending on the number of teeth you are missing, your dentist may recommend full or partial dentures. 

Full dentures are used when all teeth are missing, while partial dentures fill in the gaps between remaining natural teeth.
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How Do Dentures Work?

Dentures have a supportive structure that mimics your gums and hold the artificial teeth in place. You can clip this structure onto your natural teeth to secure it. In other instances, dentures are held in place with the help of an adhesive.
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Pros and Cons of Dentures

Dentures have several advantages:

• They are less expensive than dental implants.
• They can be easily removed for cleaning.
• They can be adjusted or replaced if necessary.

However, dentures also have some significant disadvantages:

• They do not function as well as natural teeth and may affect your ability to speak and eat certain foods.
• They may require the use of adhesive to keep them in place.
• They may need to be replaced every five to seven years.
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Dental Implants vs. Dentures: What Should You Choose?

Ultimately, the decision between dental implants and dentures will depend on your needs and unique situation. At Stevens Dental, we can help you determine what works for you and provide the best treatment in the Baton Rouge area. 

‍Contact us now to book your appointment.