Seniors who have lost one or more teeth often choose to replace them with dentures instead of dental implants due to the lower upfront costs and quicker treatment times associated with dentures, as well as the fact that they don’t require surgery.
Those are where the advantages end, however.
Dental implants provide better comfort, stability, and long-term oral health than dentures.
Unlike dentures, implants are permanent, low-maintenance, and eliminate issues like slipping or gum irritation. They also prevent bone loss, offer a more natural feel, and allow for better chewing and speech.
Here’s a closer look at why you should opt for implants over dentures.
ORAL HEALTH
Dental implants contribute to better oral health than dentures due to their stability, preservation of your jawbone health, and natural functionality.
Unlike dentures, which rest on the gums and can shift and cause discomfort, implants are securely anchored into the jawbone. This prevents the bone from deteriorating, which is a common issue with dentures. Implants stimulate the bone similarly to your natural teeth, preserving your facial structure.
Implants also reduce the risk of the gum irritation, sores, and infections often caused by ill-fitting dentures.
DURABILITY
Implants provide stability by being anchored into your jawbone. They are also more durable than dentures due to their design and material.
Implants are made from titanium and are fused with your jawbone, creating a permanent, stable foundation that can last a lifetime with proper care.
Dentures, on the other hand, are removable and require adhesives and natural suction for stability. Over time, dentures can wear down, crack or break when dropped, or become ill-fitting due to your jawbone receding, which can require you to need frequent replacements and adjustments.
FUNCTIONALITY
With their secure and permanent base, dental implants replicate the function of your natural tooth roots, offering significantly more functionality than dentures.
Implants help seniors avoid the slipping or shifting that can occur with dentures, not only making it easier to speak with confidence, but also providing a stronger bite than dentures, which allows seniors to chew a wider variety of foods, including harder or tougher items, without discomfort.
They also don’t require frequent removal for cleaning, making them a more natural and hassle-free alternative to dentures.
ARE IMPLANTS THE RIGHT FIT FOR YOU?
Dental implant surgery is a routine, minimally invasive procedure involving advanced techniques and custom anesthesia options. If you are in good general health, have sufficient jawbone density, and are committed to proper oral hygiene, you are likely a good candidate for dental implants.
While implants can have higher initial costs than dentures, their long-term stability and strength make them a great investment in your oral and overall health.
We welcome you to consult Dr. Armstrong regarding any questions you might have about the procedure. Contact us today to make an appointment to learn more about how dental implants can transform your smile.
