If you’re missing one or two teeth, you may have some questions about your best options for tooth replacement. That’s why the team at Crossroads Family Dentistry has put together some information about dentures and dental implants. We can help you figure out which treatment may be right for your needs, and your particular situation. Let’s get started.
Dentures – The Pros And Cons
Dentures are artificial teeth, usually built from acrylic resin. Full and partial dentures can be used to replace either a full arc of teeth or a few missing teeth, depending on your needs and the health of your smile.
Here are the pros and cons of dentures, as compared to dental implants:
Pros
- Can restore multiple teeth – Restoring more than 1 or 2 teeth with dental implants can take a long time, and be quite expensive. Dentures, on the other hand, can quickly treat multiple missing teeth – and even a full arch of missing teeth.
- Very affordable – Dentures are typically less expensive than dental implants, and are often covered by dental plans.
- Faster treatment time – Depending on whether you’re receiving a partial or full denture, treatment times are typically faster than that of dental implants.
Cons
- Can be uncomfortable – Dentures do not always feel natural. They may slip or irritate your gums, and may take time and practice to feel natural.
- Must be replaced regularly – Dentures typically require reshaping or replacement every 3-7 years.
- Weakened integrity of jaw and gum structure – Missing teeth can lead to the recession of gums and the weakening of jaw tissue in some patients. Dentures may replace missing teeth, but your jaw may still be at risk.
As a rule, dentures are better if you are on a tight budget and have more than a few missing teeth. If you have just a few missing teeth, dental implants are an excellent alternative.
The Pros & Cons Of Dental Implants
Dental implants are a method of permanent tooth restoration, usually used to treat 1-2 missing teeth. First, a dental “post” is implanted into the gum and jaw tissue, where the root of the missing tooth used to be. Over the next 3-6 months, this post bonds permanently with the surrounding tissue. Finally, a dental crown that’s shaped to look and feel exactly like the missing tooth is attached permanently, completing the process.
Pros
- Permanent – With proper care, a dental implant will last anywhere from 30+ years to the rest of your life.
- Requires no specialized care – Simply brush and floss normally, and visit Crossroads Family Dentistry for your 6-month exams and professional teeth cleanings. That’s it!
- Natural appearance and feeling – Dental implants are indistinguishable from your original tooth.
Cons
- Can be expensive – Dental implants typically have a larger upfront cost. However, this may even out when you consider their permanence.
- Requires surgery – Dental implants will require an invasive surgery to place the post, and a recovery period is necessary after surgery before the treatment can be completed.
- Insurance may not cover an implant – Not all insurance companies cover the cost of dental implants. Contact your insurance provider to see what options are available to you, and check our patient resources to see what lenders we work with.
Dental implants are a permanent solution to tooth loss, and they look and feel just like normal teeth. This makes them a much better long-term investment, compared to dentures.
Interested In Dental Implants In Oklahoma City? Come To Crossroads Family Dentistry Now!
At Crossroads Family Dentistry, Dr. Faulconer, Dr. Dais and Dr. Underwood are all experts in comprehensive, restorative dentistry. Our dentists can recommend the best solution for your missing teeth, with your budget and your oral health in mind.
Don’t suffer the negative effects of missing teeth any longer. Contact us today at 405-631-0322 for an appointment, or visit us at 8101 South Walker, Suite D., Oklahoma City, OK 73139.
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