Comprehensive Guide to Dental Implants and Dentures: What You Need to Know

In the world of dentistry, there are many procedures that can be either challenging or simply confusing for patients. For those who have experienced tooth loss or are struggling with the effects of age on their teeth, dental implants and dentures can be two of the most important options to explore.

Fortunately, both of these services are more accessible than ever before; you just need to have a good grasp on what they both entail. Whether you’re exploring your options after losing a tooth or as part of a broader plan to improve your smile and oral health, gaining an understanding of what each service offers is invaluable.

Both Dentures and implants serve very different purposes and should not be viewed as interchangeable, so read on for all the details you need to know about each one.

What Are Dental Implants?

Dental implants are synthetic root-like structures that are surgically implanted into your jawbone to support replacement teeth.

These are usually made out of titanium, which is a biocompatible, non-toxic metal that is naturally resistant to corrosion. Implants are a long-term investment.

They are usually placed at the site of existing teeth, and once they’re in place, they will remain there for the rest of your life. Your dentist will place a small titanium post into your jaw, and the tooth will be screwed into that post.

What Are Dentures?

Dentures are a removable oral appliance that is custom-made out of either natural or synthetic teeth. A dentist will take an impression of your mouth and then send it to a dental lab, where your new set of teeth will be created.

Once your dentures are ready, a skilled dental technician will fit them to your mouth. Dentures can be made out of a variety of materials, including acrylic, metal-reinforced acrylic, and a variety of other types of synthetic materials.

Some dentures even feature real teeth, either from your own mouth or from another donor. However, natural teeth tend to be more expensive, so synthetic dentures are the most common option.

How Are Dental Implants and Dentures Different?

If we’re to be technical about it, an implant is a synthetic tooth root, whereas a denture is an artificial tooth. However, in everyday conversation, these terms are often used interchangeably.

This can make the difference between the two procedures even more confusing to understand. A dental implant is surgically placed and designed to last your lifetime. This means that it’s a significant investment in your oral health, but it will pay off over time.

A denture, on the other hand, can be removed anytime you want, which means that it is a much less permanent solution. Dentures are also removable, which means that they need to be properly cared for and kept clean.

Implants, on the other hand, are integrated into the bone of your jaw and are not removable, which makes them a more convenient option.

How Do Dental Implants and Dentures Differ From One Another?

Dentures and implants are easier to remove and less expensive to purchase than dental implants. On the flip side, dental implants are a more natural fit for your mouth as they are attached directly to your jawbone, which means that they are less likely to be rejected by your body.

Dentures also need to be properly cleaned and maintained in order to avoid developing bacteria. If they are not properly cared for, bacteria can build up in your mouth and cause problems with your gums, teeth, and other oral health issues.

Dental implants, on the other hand, are a permanent fixture in your mouth and do not need to be cleaned or maintained in any way. If you are in need of dental implants, it is important to find a dentist who is highly trained in implant dentistry.

Guide to Dental Implant Surgery

Dental implant surgery is an in-office procedure that is typically completed within two hours. The first step is to remove the tooth that you want replaced with an implant. The dentist will numb your gums to ensure that you experience minimal discomfort.

Next, the dentist will create an opening in your jawbone and then place the dental implant. Once the implant is in place, the dentist will secure it with a temporary crown. The final step is to place the post into the implant and screw your new tooth onto it. The whole process is relatively quick, and you will likely feel little to no discomfort. After the procedure, you may experience some mild swelling, soreness, and a little bleeding, which is completely normal.

Guide to Denture Therapy

If you decide to get dentures, you will likely have to undergo a period of dental restoration therapy. Restorative therapy is a solution that is sometimes offered to people who are missing teeth, and it can be completed either with or without dental implants.

During therapy, your dentist will provide you with a set of removable teeth, known as dentures. Denture therapy is usually completed over a period of about six months, but this time frame can vary greatly depending on the needs of the patient.

During this time, the dentist will clean your gums and provide you with fluoride treatments in order to help your gums heal properly. In addition, your dentist will likely prescribe an anti-inflammatory medication to help minimize swelling and reduce pain.

Conclusion

Dental implants are a great option for those who have lost teeth due to dental disease, breakage, or other issues. These are long-term, effective options that can help you to avoid traditional dentures. Dentures are another convenient option, especially for those who are looking for a more affordable solution.

While both of these procedures can be effective in restoring oral health, it’s important to remember that they come with different pros and cons. With the right amount of research and preparation, you can make the most out of these procedures.

Whether you’re looking to replace missing teeth or simply want to improve your oral health, dental implants and dentures can be the perfect solution.