As people grow older, they experience tooth loss for various reasons. Missing teeth can not only look unsightly, they can actually deteriorate your oral health. For that reason, if you are missing a tooth you should have it corrected as soon as possible.
Now, there are many ways to correct a missing tooth, but the main ways are dental implants or dentures. Both have benefits and detractors but knowing which is the best tooth replacement option for you takes consideration.
The Difference between Dental Implants and Bridges
Dentures used to be the only option for someone who lost a tooth. They are false teeth that require a dental adhesive to keep them in place. Dental implants become an actual, permanent replacement for a missing tooth. They are implanted directly into the gum and can be treated just like a regular tooth.
Comfort
There’s no way around it, dental implants are much more comfortable and natural than dentures. That is because they fit, feel, and act just like a normal tooth would. There will be some initial discomfort as the implant fuses with the jawbone, but aside from that, you will have a quality tooth replacement that requires no additional care. You also won’t need to worry about the embarrassing moments that can occur if dentures fall out while eating or speaking.
Durability & Maintenance
Dental implants serve as a permanent tooth replacement. They are implanted directly into the jawbone and can last for over 25 years. Dentures, on the other hand, need considerable care and maintenance and have a much shorter lifespan. Dentures need to be cleaned daily with special solutions and you also need to purchase high quality dental adhesive to keep them rooted firmly in place. Unfortunately, dentures also need to be replaced every seven to fifteen years. They just aren’t a long-lasting option like dental implants are.
Oral Health
Another benefit that dental implants have over dentures, and perhaps the most important one, is that they preserve the bone around the missing tooth. Since implants are rooted directly in the jaw bone, it helps the jawbone maintain density, health and structure. With dentures, the jawbone is left without a permanent replacement. This means you may experience bone deterioration and shrinkage that can lead to extensive procedures or facial structure changes down the road.
Cost
The downside to dental implants is that they cost more upfront. The sticker shock can initially cause people to choose dentures without much more consideration. However, when you bring durability and quality of life into the picture, dental implants become the clear front runner. Dental implants can also last a lifetime, while dentures require cleaning solutions, repairs, adhesives, and frequent replacement. Dental implants can cost more initially, but they are a better long-term solution for tooth replacement.
Commack Dental Design Can Install Dental Implants at Our State-of-the-Art Facility
At Commack Dental Design, we provide cosmetic procedures to our clients throughout Long Island. If you are looking for a high-quality, long-lasting dental implant to replace a lost tooth, look no further. Our experienced team utilizes top of the line technology and dental techniques to provide our patients exemplary dental services in a comfortable environment. Call us today at (631) 499-5955 to schedule your appointment today.
