Dr. Kevin Welinsky offers several restorative dentistry treatments to replace missing teeth. If you have an entire arch of missing teeth, you have two options to replace those teeth: traditional, removable dentures or implant-supported dentures. The best treatment for you will depend on your oral health needs, budget, and cosmetic goals. Continue reading to learn more about dental implants vs dentures in Towson, MD.
How Do Dental Implants Work?
Dental implants offer a permanent and stable tooth replacement option. This solution involves surgically placing dental implant fixtures into the jawbone. They will act as artificial tooth roots and will also support the denture.
Implant fixtures are made of a special material, typically titanium, that fuses with human bone. This is a safe and biocompatible material. Once we place the implant posts into the bone, they heal over 3 to 6 months. Then the posts are strong enough to hold a denture firmly in place.
How do Dentures Work?
A traditional denture is a removable appliance that will replace missing teeth. A removable denture is made of an acrylic and metal base that is flesh-colored to match the natural color of gum tissue. The false teeth are fused to the denture base. The denture base will rest directly on the gums and will remain in place with denture adhesive or suction.
Removable dentures are a good option for patients who want a quick way to replace missing teeth. But these types of dentures may not last as long as implant dentures.
Dental Implants vs Dentures in Towson, MD
Comparing the pros and cons of each option will help you choose which one is best for you. While both will help restore oral function and aesthetics, dentures and implants have many differences.
Dental Implants
The benefits of implants make them a better option for many patients. Implants:
- Restore Normal Function: Unlike regular dentures that can slip or move, implants stay firmly in place. They act like artificial tooth roots, securely holding replacement teeth so you can eat, speak, and smile with confidence. There’s no worrying about your teeth shifting or falling out at the wrong time.
- Protect Your Jawbone: When you lose teeth, your jawbone can start to shrink over time, which changes the shape of your face. Implants help prevent this by acting like natural tooth roots, keeping the bone active and healthy. This means your facial structure stays more natural-looking for years to come.
- Are Built to Last: With regular brushing, flossing, and dental checkups, implants can last a lifetime. While they may cost more upfront than other options, their durability makes them a smart investment over time. You won’t need to replace them every few years like dentures or bridges.
However, implants also offer:
- High Cost: Dental implants tend to cost more upfront compared to dentures. The cost of implants depends on the materials, number of missing teeth, and type of implant restoration. Because implants need high-quality materials and surgery, they will cost more than traditional dentures.
- Requires Surgery: Implant placement requires a procedure. Some patients may not qualify for surgery. But we’ll ensure you are a good candidate before treatment.
- Long Treatment Time: The treatment time to get dental implants is significantly longer than dentures. It can take up to a year to complete. But many patients find that implants are worth it because they last longer than other restorations. You may also need more time to complete treatment because we treat gum disease and cavities before we place implants.
Dentures
The benefits of traditional dentures include:
- Very affordable: Compared to dental implants, dentures cost significantly less upfront. This makes them a practical choice for many people who need to replace multiple missing teeth but want to avoid higher expenses. While they may need adjustments or replacement over time, their initial affordability helps more patients restore their smiles.
- Non-Invasive Treatment: Getting dentures doesn’t require surgery. You can get dentures in just a few comfortable dental visits. We will take impressions of your gums and any remaining teeth. Then we send them to a lab where your custom dentures are made. Once ready, they fit the dentures to your mouth, making minor adjustments for comfort. The process is straightforward and works well for patients who prefer to avoid surgical procedures.
- Restores Everyday Comfort and Function: Even though dentures don’t feel exactly like natural teeth, they greatly improve basic daily activities. They help you chew food more easily, speak clearly, and smile with confidence. While they take some practice to get used to, most people adapt within a few weeks and enjoy a better quality of life.
However, dentures:
- Are less stable: Dentures are not as stable as dental implants. They will sometimes become loose or shift when you eat and speak. Slipping dentures are a common problem if you have removable restorations. You may need denture adhesives or frequent adjustments to removable dentures.
- Increase the risk of bone loss: Dentures do not stimulate the jawbone like natural teeth or dental implants. Instead of supporting the jaw bone, dentures lay on top of the gums. As a result, bone loss will occur over time. Bone loss can affect your face. It can cause facial sagging to create a “sunken in” look.
- Require more maintenance: Your gums and bone structure change around the dentures as you wear them. Dentures require regular cleaning and periodic adjustments to ensure a proper fit. The cost of rebasing your denture can also not make the initial cost of dentures worth it for some patients.
Replace Missing Teeth
Are you considering the right restoration to replace your teeth? Contact Dr. Welinsky today at 410-449-7656. You can also request an appointment online by filling out our online request form to book a dental implant consultation. Here, Dr. Welinsky can help you decide between dental implants vs dentures in Towson, MD.
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