Valley Dental Health offers several replacement options for patients with missing teeth. The best treatment for you will depend on your personal oral health needs and cosmetic goals. Our dentists will evaluate your gums and teeth and then present you with all of your treatment options. Our experts will explain the pros and cons of each treatment and how they will benefit you.
Dental implants are recommended over removable appliances like dentures because they last longer and have more natural looking result. Dental implants also offer long term benefits for dental health when compared to dentures as well as dental bridges.
Dr. Roham Rafat of Valley Dental Health is one of the most highly trained periodontists in the Hunt Valley, MD area. Dr. Rafat offers complete implant dentistry services from the surgical placement of the implant through the cosmetic restoration.
Dental Implants vs. Dentures
There are many things to consider when choosing between dentures and dental implants. Below are the differences, pros, and cons of each option.
The Cost
Dentures cost significantly less when compared to dental implants. Dentures require lots of maintenance and will need replaced, realigned, or rebased over time. This cost can add up depending on the wear and tear. Dental implants cost more but are a permanent solution. If cared for properly, they will last forever.
Appearance of smile and lower face – A face void of teeth will appear sunken and can add years to your appearance. Dentures and dental implants will keep the natural shape of your face and lower jaw area. Dental implants look more like natural teeth when compared to dentures. Dental Implants can be colored matched to your natural teeth as well.
Eating
Dentures will deliver about a 30-40% normal chewing function. Oftentimes, dentures may slip around or may not fit correctly leaving you with the worry of falling out. Dental implants will deliver a 100% normal chewing function and there is no chance they can fall out because they are surgically implanted.
How They Fit
With dentures, you may need to apply a gooey adhesive every time you wear them to hold them in your mouth. With Dental implants, you won’t need to do this extra step because they are surgically implanted and can be treated like a normal tooth. Also, dentures may be a bit uncomfortable because they may cover a large portion of your mouth with plastic, depending on the type of dentures you need. They may feel weird in your mouth and take some time to get used to because they are bulky.
Bone loss
If you’re missing a tooth or multiple teeth, that void can cause bone loss and deterioration in your jawbone. Hunt Valley, MD dentist Dr. Rafat will recommend dental implants over dentures because they are the only option for missing teeth that stimulates the jaw bone which helps stimulate bone growth. This will prevent bone loss.
Maintenance
Dentures involve a lot of care. They must be brushed daily and can possibly break if dropped. You can never let your dentures dry out and that can be a constant worry especially when not wearing them. Dental implants require the same care as your natural teeth. You can brush them and floss them without worry of damaging them.