The replacement of missing teeth is never done for cosmetic reasons only. There are a number of risks associated with not replacing missing teeth that are medical in nature. For example, failure to replace missing teeth is known to cause the misalignment of adjacent teeth, which often grow towards the empty space left by the missing tooth.
Dental implants and removable dentures are two among the most common options for the replacement of missing teeth. Here is a comparison of the two options that can help you make the right decision on which replacement option best suits you.
Money Matters
It is no secret that professional dental services can rake up an unhealthy bill. A large number of patients tend to prefer removable dentures over dental implants because the upfront cost of removable dentures is lower than that of dental implants.
In the long run, however, dental implants are a more cost-effective alternative because they do not crack as easily as dentures. Dental implants will, therefore, serve their function for much longer without having to be repaired or replaced.
Overall Comfort Levels
Money matters aside, the level of comfort associated with various tooth replacement options should be of great importance to a patient. Dental implants are often considered to provide greater comfort as compared to dentures.
This is because dental implants are installed at the exact position where the root of a missing tooth used to be. In comparison, dentures are installed on the gums. Therefore, implants have a greater ability to mimic the structure and workings of a missing tooth better than dentures can.
Also related to comfort is the fact that removable dentures can easily slip out of position when one is speaking or eating. Apart from this being uncomfortable, it can also be a source of embarrassment for the patient.
Maintenance Related Issues
Both removable dentures and dental implants have their maintenance needs. However, the difference is seen in the ease of maintenance for either tooth replacement option.
In order to clean removable dentures, they have to be removed from the mouth and cleaned individually. This means that your regular brushing routine cannot suffice for the cleaning of removable dentures.
In comparison, implants are permanent fixtures in the mouth, and they do not have special cleaning requirements. You only need to stick to your regular brushing routine in order to keep dental implants clean and in good shape.
To learn more about dental implants and dentures, contact a dentist in your area.
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