Dental Implants vs. Dentures

Dental Implants

• Made of titanium. Titanium is a metal compatible with the human body. Over time, the titanium implant will fuse with the bone.

• Very stable. Teeth implants have a root-like portion that fits into the bone socket like natural teeth. Once the implant is placed, it will act as a permanent replacement for the lost tooth.

• Can replace one or more teeth. Implants can be used to replace just one tooth or many. This allows for more flexibility in restoring your smile.

• Will last a lifetime. With proper care, dental implants need never be replaced. Just like a natural tooth, good oral hygiene will ensure its longevity.

• Preserves jawbone. Because of the root like shape of the implant, the bone where the tooth or teeth were lost will be naturally stimulated and not deteriorate over time.

Dentures

• Made of uncomfortable materials. Dentures are made of acrylic, cast metal, and flexible plastic, which may irritate the gums.

• Unstable. Because they are not fixed in the mouth, dentures can move around and make clicking sounds when you eat or speak. And the ability to chew naturally is greatly diminished.

• Only used when many or all teeth lost. Because of their design, dentures are only an option when many or all teeth have been lost.

• Will need to be replaced. Dentures will need to be re-fitted, re-made, or re-aligned as your gums and jaw structure change with age.

• Does not preserve jawbone. Because the denture rests on the gums, there is little to no stimulation for the jawbone. The jawbone will deteriorate over time without this stimulation.