Many of our patients at Craig S. Donn, DDS in Cherry Hill and Camden County, NJ have utilized dentures and dental bridges for many years, as an available tooth replacement option. But now, many of these same patients are beginning to notice flaws in their dentures that they may not have before. While the denture can be reliable, it is not 100% secure. There are also other aspects that dental implants hold over dentures, proving that dental implants may be one of the best tooth replacement options out there.
Form and Function
The major difference between dentures and dental implants is the permanence of dental implants, versus the temporary fixture of dentures. While dentures are secured in the mouth with an adhesive, dental implants are embedded deep into the jawbone, where they remain secured and fused. This fusion process is known as osseointegration, and ensures that the bone remains strongly bonded to the implant, much like how it holds a natural tooth too. Dentures need to be replaced every five to ten years, depending on the wear and tear of the denture.
Thanks to this permanence, the dental implant can function much like a natural tooth too. Studies have shown that dentures have only half the normal bite strength of a full set of teeth, leaving some patients to struggle with food preparation or resorting to softer foods. Dental implants work alongside your strong, natural teeth to keep enjoying the foods you love. They’re made of durable titanium and porcelain, with virtually no risk of breaking or falling out.
Appearance and Maintenance
When most folks think of dentures, they remember an older relative who had dentures and what would happen when the denture slipped. It clacked and popped in their mouths, and often would need a hand in being put back in place. Unfortunately, dentures only cover up the missing teeth, but do not solve the problem underneath in the jawbone. This leaves neighboring teeth with the ability to shift out of place to fill the gap, or bacteria to fester in the open wound.
With dental implants, you can effectively fill that space with a natural-appearing implant that looks and feels like a real tooth. It’s permanent, meaning there’s no risk of the implant becoming loose or falling out. Dental implants are also much more manageable to clean than dentures. Dentures require daily removal and thorough scrubbing, whereas dental implants can be cleaned with a toothbrush, non-abrasive toothpaste, floss, etc. It’s purpose is to act as a natural tooth, so it’s easy to clean it like a natural tooth as well.
Your Overall Health
What affects your oral health can have adverse effects on your overall health as well. Not many patients know that the state of your teeth and gums can reflect the state of your inner body systems as well. By filling in that space in your smile with a dental implant, it effectively fills the hole left behind by the lost tooth. The chances of infection are greatly reduced, and the surrounding teeth don’t shift out of place. Dental implants strengthen the jawbone underneath, preventing facial bone collapse, thanks to the process of osseointegration.
Trade in Your Dentures Today
If you’re missing one or more teeth in Cherry Hill and Camden County, NJ, or are unhappy with the performance of your dentures, consult us at Craig S. Donn, DDS. Contact us today to learn more about what dental implants can do for you and to schedule a consultation with Dr. Donn. Discover today if dental implants are best for your and your smile!