Dr. Alan Dechter and Dr. Matthew Moy offer both dentures and dental implants in Silver Spring, MD to replace missing teeth. But which option is the best when you want to replace a full arch of missing teeth? We compare both types of tooth replacement to determine which is the best fit for you.
What are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are a revolutionary technology that can restore your smile and give you back your confidence. These implants consist of three separate parts: a titanium post, an abutment, and a crown. The parts work together to create a secure and natural-looking replacement tooth.
With dental implants, you can enjoy the same benefits as natural teeth with the added bonus of improved durability. Dental implants provide countless advantages to those who have lost one or more teeth due to injury, decay or gum disease.
What are Traditional Dentures?
Traditional dentures consist of a metal and resin base with plastic or porcelain teeth. By providing a secure and comfortable fit, traditional dentures can help restore the natural appearance of the mouth, allowing patients to smile with confidence. The metal and resin base provides a strong foundation for the plastic or porcelain teeth, ensuring an accurate fit that looks and feels natural.
Traditional dentures are an effective and affordable way to replace missing teeth. They are removable and hold onto your dental arch with a dental adhesive. At night, you will need to take them out to clean and soak them to remove the adhesive. This will ensure that they’re clean and ready for the next day.
Restorations and Bone Loss
The best thing about dental implants is that they stop and can even help reverse jawbone deterioration. The bone in the area where you lose a tooth will begin to deteriorate as soon as the tooth is lost. They’re the only treatment method that replaces the tooth root and the crown. Since the implant post is placed in the jawbone, jawbone regeneration is spurred on so that the post can fuse with the bone.
Fit and Function
Both restoration options will eliminate the sagging facial appearance that comes with losing teeth. However, dentures need adhesive to stay in your mouth, while implants don’t need this step. Even with the advancements in dentures over the years, they can still be bulky and take some time to get used to.
Dental implants both look and feel more like your natural teeth. Because they’re rooted in that bone, you’ll get used to them in no time. No extra bulk is added into your mouth with implants.
As far as chewing function goes, dentures restore about 30-40% of the function. With implants, you get 100% of your function back. You don’t have to worry about making any dietary changes because you can eat all of the foods that you used to. You don’t have the risk of your restoration slipping or falling out.
Comparing the Cost
At the start, dentures are significantly cheaper than dental implants. They also have the added benefit of around 15-50% coverage by many dental insurance companies. While each dental plan varies, you’ll be able to check with your insurance company to see how much they cover for a denture restoration.
Dental implants are considered a cosmetic dental service, so most dental insurance companies don’t cover them. However, some companies may cover a percentage of the fabrication of the final dental restoration.
But while dental implants are more expensive upfront, they’re built to last. You won’t have to worry about replacing them or anything in the future. Because your jawbone still deteriorates when you have dentures, you’ll have to get them relined or replaced multiple times. These costs add up down the road.
Frequently Asked Questions
We’ll answer some of the most commonly asked questions about dentures versus dental implants in Silver Spring, MD.
Should I choose dentures or dental implants?
Dental implants and dentures are two of the most popular options for replacing missing teeth. Implants offer a more permanent solution, while dentures can be removed and replaced more easily. Both offer distinct benefits, so it is important to consider your individual needs and lifestyle when deciding which option is best for you.
Is the process of getting dentures or implants more invasive?
Getting implants is more invasive than dentures. Implants require surgery to place titanium posts in your jawbone. Dentures only need impressions of your gums. Implant recovery takes months, while denture adjustment is faster. But many patients find the results worth the healing time.
Which option lasts longer, implants or dentures?
Implants generally last longer than dentures. Tooth implants can last 20 years or more with proper care. For many patients, they can often last a lifetime. Implants also maintain your bone health.
Dentures usually need replacement or adjustments every 5 to 10 years from wear or changes in the jaw. Tooth implants have always been a more permanent solution. Dentures may require more maintenance over time. We can help you decide the best option.
Do dental implants require special care compared to dentures?
Dental implants require less special care compared to dentures. You care for implants like natural teeth. You need to brush and floss them and attend regular dental check-ups. Dentures require daily removal and cleaning. They also sometimes need adhesives to stay in place. Implants offer a more convenient option for many patients.
How does bone health impact the choice between implants and dentures?
Bone health greatly affects your options. Tooth implants need a strong, healthy jawbone for support. Good bone density ensures their success. Dentures don’t require as much bone but can lead to bone loss over time. If you lack bone density, you might need grafts for implants. We’ll assess your bone health to recommend the best option.
Can I switch from dentures to dental implants later?
Yes. Many people start with dentures and decide they want something more permanent. Before you get implants, one of our dentists will check your jawbone to make sure it’s healthy and strong enough to support them.
If you’ve worn dentures for many years, you may have some bone loss, but a bone graft can often rebuild the area. We’ll recommend implants once you’re in good oral health and your jawbone is ready.
Am I too old for implants?
No, you aren’t too old for dental implants. Age is not the main factor in deciding if you can get implants. All that matters is your overall health and bone strength.
Many older adults successfully receive dental implants and enjoy the benefits of a stable, natural-looking smile. Our dentists will check your gums, bone density, and medical history to make sure implants are a safe option for you. As long as you are healthy enough for minor surgery, dental implants can be a great choice at any age.
Are there risks associated with dental implants compared to dentures?
Dental implants carry some surgical risks, like infection or nerve damage. They’re more invasive than dentures. But unlike dentures, implants prevent bone loss. Dentures can cause gum irritation and accelerate bone loss.
Both options have pros and cons. Our dentist will explain the risks based on your specific case.
Schedule An Appointment Today
Dechter & Moy will create a personalized treatment plan for every patient. Our dentists will talk to you about your budget, goals, and oral health to help you get the perfect restoration for your unique needs. Call us today at (301) 508-9755 or schedule an appointment online to get started.