Teeth loss in adults is a common problem in the US. The American College of Prosthodontists estimates that 178 million American adults are missing at least one tooth and approximately 40 million do not have any of their natural teeth. For years, the most popular solution for missing teeth had been dental bridges or dentures. However, over the past few decades, dental implants have also become a popular teeth replacement choice. So, you may be wondering which tooth replacement method is best for you. The answer is simple if you consider the true benefits of each method.
Dentures
Limited Stability of Dentures
Dentures are a relatively quicker and easier solution to replacing missing teeth. The quality of modern dentures is superior to those available decades ago but they are still removable and you need to use dental adhesives to keep them in place. What’s more, even with the adhesives, dentures can still slip while eating or speaking.
Dental & Facial Issues
Dentures may also be initially less expensive than dental implants and do not require surgery but your dental issues may not be over even after removing all your natural teeth. For example, if you choose dentures, you may still experience sores and bone deterioration since dentures do not stimulate bone growth. In fact, if the dentures are not fitted properly, they can accelerate bone loss. Consequently, over time, bone deterioration can be extensive enough to affect the shape of your face and the look of your smile.
Long-Term Cost of Dentures
You also need to consider the fact that dentures will need to be adjusted due to the atrophy of your jaw and may even need to be replaced from time to time. These are, of course, added costs to your choice of dentures over dental implants and, in the long-term, the actual cost of dentures can surpass that of implants.
Dental Implants
Just Like Natural Teeth
Unlike dentures, dental implants are non-removable and act more like your natural teeth. As they are implanted or anchored to the jawbone and gums, they are much stronger and more stable than dentures. The implants fuse with your jawbone through a process called osseointegration and create a stable base for natural-looking dental crowns. Best of all, dental implants stimulate bone growth in the same way as the root of your natural teeth and help prevent bone deterioration which can lead to facial collapse.
Quality of Life and Dental Implants
The initial cost of dental implants may be greater than dentures. However, when you consider the level of quality of life they offer you and your oral health then the cost becomes inconsequential. Replacing missing teeth with dental implants means that you will not have to worry about your chewing ability and which foods to eat. Additionally, you won’t have to remove your dentures at night and use adhesives to attach them to your gums in the morning.
Furthermore, being permanently attached to your jawbone, you won’t have to worry about any discomfort or the embarrassment of your dentures slipping while you’re talking or eating. There is also the issue of oral hygiene which for dental implants is the same as that of natural teeth (brushing and flossing) whereas with dentures, you have to clean them more meticulously and the cost is much greater.
The Dental Implants Procedure Performed by Dr. Kissel
One of the reasons that a large number of individuals are apprehensive about dental implants is the fact that they are a major oral surgery procedure. That is why Dr. Kissel uses the most advanced care and technology to limit patients’ fears. In the case of dental implants, he is one of the few periodontists in the world who use advanced microsurgery techniques. By using microsurgery, he is able to make the surgery and recovery time faster, easier and more comfortable for his patients.
Contact Dr. Kissel to reclaim your beautiful smile and the full functionality of your teeth with dental implants. During a consultation, Dr. Kissel performs a complete oral examination and explains the dental implant procedure to you, including tooth removal (if needed) and dental implant placement using microsurgery techniques.
If you’re ready to replace your smile with natural-looking, functional dental implants, then call Dr. Kissel’s office in the New York City area for a consultation at (212) 702-9088 or book online.
