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Losing your teeth is serious business. You may find that tooth loss can make everyday activities such as chewing or speaking all the more difficult. Nevertheless, sometimes, your only option is to say goodbye to your natural teeth, whether due to disease or trauma.

Fortunately, modern dentistry provides solutions in the form of dentures and dental implants. These two options differ in cost, efficiency, and applicability, and it can be confusing to choose between the two.

Here is more information about the differences between dentures and dental implants, to help you make a better-informed decision. Of course, nothing beats having a trusted dentist help you determine which may be more appropriate for you.

The Basics

Dentures and dental implants both mimic the appearance of healthy teeth, restoring your attractive smile and the ability to eat and speak properly.

The biggest difference between the two is how they are attached inside your mouth.

Dentures are a set of prosthetic teeth meant to replace missing teeth. Full or partial dentures are meant to be periodically removed from the mouth. They usually consist of one or more artificial teeth supported by a base that lies on the gums and surrounding tissues. You may also choose to remove your dentures at night to give your gums a rest while you sleep.

Dental implants, on the other hand, are secured to the bone of your jaw. Dental implants are meant to be permanent and are not removable by the patient.

Cost and Durability

Dentures have lower upfront costs than dental implants. In addition, most insurance policies cover dentures but may have more restrictive rules when it comes to covering the cost of dental implants. However, dentures may need to be refitted and adjusted from time to time due to the changing dimensions of your mouth. In particular, gums and bone tend to contract after tooth.

Dental implants are significantly more expensive initially, but they tend to require less maintenance cost and effort. As long as properly taken care of, implants can last a lifetime without any adjustments or repairs.

Convenience

Dentures can take some time to get used to. The first few weeks in particular can be problematic as people usually find that their dentures shift or click when they talk or eat. With practice, the muscles of your mouth eventually learn how to keep the dentures more secured. Also, adhesives can help keep your dentures in place.

Dental implants look and feel more like natural teeth due to their direct attachment to the jawbone. Implants are unlikely to loosen, and you are not usually required to avoid certain foods, as is the case with dentures. For example, hot or sticky foods may be a problem with dentures – but not dental implants.

Whether to choose dentures or dental implants depend on a lot of factors. Cost, lifestyle, your general health, and goals can affect your decision. Make sure you contact a qualified dentist you trust to help you make the choice.

If you live near Plantation, Florida, you should contact Dr. Ernie Soto. He is a specialist in cosmetic and implant dentistry and can provide numerous dental services to help keep your bright smile – including helping you decide between dentures or dental implants. Call Dr. Soto now at (954) 368-6264 or schedule an appointment now.