Losing teeth can be a stressful experience but don't be stressed because you are not alone. According to the World Health Organization, about 30% of people aged 65-74 don't have natural teeth. So, you could be in the process of acquiring dentures or dental implants. But before you take that deep dive into selecting the best option to suit your preferences or restore your previous look, you should know the difference between dentures and dental implants.
Dentures Explained.
Dentures is a set of specially moulded prosthetic teeth. The set is used to replace missing teeth and some of the gum tissue. It is molded to fit your mouth and is normally removable. The two types of dentures available are partial dentures and complete dentures. Partial dentures are used when a section of your teeth are missing, and are supported by clasps around the remaining teeth. Complete dentures are a replacement of all the natural teeth that are missing in either the lower jaw or the upper jaw.
What are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are replacement tooth roots, sometimes referred to as implant dentistry. The tooth roots are implanted through a surgical process into the jawbone. A titanium post that replicates the root of a natural tooth is surgically inserted into the jawbone. The titanium integrates into the jaw and acts as a root of the tooth. It is the titanium that will hold the replacement tooth. Dental implants are mostly considered as a cosmetic surgery under cosmetic dentistry.
Dental Implants or Dentures?
Dentures have their advantages and drawbacks but pitched against dental implants, the benefits of having an implant far outweigh that of dentures. While dentures are an affordable alternative and are mostly covered in your dental health insurance, it can be an embarrassing site when your teeth keep on falling while you are talking. At night, while you go to bed, they have to be removed so that your gum can have a rest. The process of maintaining dentures is costly and somewhat embarrassing.
The following are reasons why you should consider dental implants:
- Improved oral health. The titanium inserted and the replacement tooth help stimulate gum tissue. This prevents bone deterioration as new tissues are produced, thereby, retaining your normal jawbone structure.
- Improved oral hygiene. Dental implants function like your natural teeth. You can brush them as usual as you would your natural teeth.
- Comfort and confidence. Dentures somewhat become uncomfortable and have to be constantly adjusted as you jawbone shrinks. With dental implants, no more discomfort and the embarrassment of your dentures falling off. In addition, you can enjoy your favorite meal as usual.
- Protect your remaining teeth. Dental implants protect the existing remaining teeth by stimulating normal tissue growth.