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For the longest time, dentures have been the most popular method for restoring missing teeth. This is because dentures provide a teeth restoration that is both quick and affordable. However, we receive many complaints about dentures regarding their comfort and reliability. For this reason, we’ve begun to receive many questions regarding what a better replacement for missing teeth might be. Well, Dr. Barry Brace and the team at St. Louis County Dental Partnership are happy to share the differences between tooth replacement treatments.
Stability
Dentures: Unless supported by another restoration, dentures are not permanent. Dentures can be taken out at any time and need to be removed each night for cleaning. While they can be secured in place with an adhesive, they still have a reputation for falling out of place and can even damage your remaining teeth in the process.
Dental Implants: Because dental implants are permanently fused to the jawbone, they should never move out of place. Your jawbone will hold each implant fixture permanently in position, which has the added benefit of allowing them a better bite.
Longevity
Dentures: On average, dentures lasts about 7 years before needing replacement. They can wear out quicker depending on how well you take care of them.
Dental Implants: Unlike dentures, dental implants are permanently embedded in your jawbone. If you are sure to take care of your implants, they should end up lasting you a lifetime.
Comfort
Dentures: Although they are molded to fit the patient’s mouth, with general wear and tear, over time dentures can become ill-fitting. This can drastically lower the level of comfort they can provide.
Dental Implants: Because dental implants are shaped to perfectly fit the space in your jaw, they will work and feel just like natural teeth. This allows for an unprecedented level of comfort.
Procedure
Dentures: The typical amount of time between attending your denture consultation and receiving your restoration is between 6 – 8 weeks, depending on the general condition of your health.
Dental Implants: It is true that the dental implant process tends to take longer than other restoration methods, averaging between four to six months between consultation and receiving the restoration. However, our patients find that the results possible with implants make them more than worth the extra time necessary for the process to complete.
Replace Your Dentures with Dental Implants
As you can see, there are many differences between dental implants and dentures that make them very different treatments. That said, if you are suffering from one or more missing teeth and would like a more permanent solution, we recommend you pursue treatment with dental implants. If you would like to learn more about dental implants and how they compare to dentures, please contact us and schedule a $1 consultation at St. Louis County Dental Partnership today. We look forward to working with you soon!
