When to Choose Dental Implants Over Dentures

Dental implants and dentures are the most common dental restorations available today. And if you’re one of the millions of Americans with missing teeth, you might wonder which option is best for you.

Dentures are a set of customized, removable teeth that fit over your gums. They can be effective if you miss all your teeth on the top, bottom, or both. A dental implant, on the other hand, is a permanent solution for a missing tooth. It replaces the tooth root in your jaw and functions like a natural tooth.

Aditi Saxena, DDS, Deepal Patel, DMD, and our team offer dental restorations at Austin Advanced Dentistry, and we’re here to help you find the right solution for your smile. Here are a few reasons why we might recommend dental implants over dentures.

The benefits of choosing dental implants

The biggest difference between dental implants and dentures is that implants are permanent, while dentures are removable. We surgically insert the implant into your jaw bone, and this has several benefits when it comes to the functionality of your smile:

Natural look and feel

Dental implants mimic your natural teeth in both appearance and function. We choose your implant's color, shape, and size to match your other teeth so your implant blends seamlessly into your smile.

Long-term solution

Dental implants are a durable and long-lasting solution for tooth loss. Proper care can last a lifetime, making them a more sustainable option than dentures, which may need to be replaced every 5-10 years.

Preservation of jawbone density

Dentures rest on top of your gums, while dental implants are surgically implanted into the jawbone. This stimulates natural bone growth, which maintains bone density and helps prevent deterioration and the sunken appearance often associated with dentures.

Improved speech and chewing

Dentures can sometimes cause discomfort and interfere with speech and chewing. But because dental implants are securely anchored in your jawbone, they provide stability and allow for natural speech and efficient chewing. You can be confident and speak clearly, and you don't have to limit your food intake.

What about implant-retained dentures?

Dental implants typically replace individual teeth — but if you're missing multiple teeth, you could be a good candidate for implant-retained bridges or dentures.

Implant-retained dentures combine the benefits of both restorations, giving you a strong base for multiple artificial teeth. This option typically involves securing a prosthetic bridge to two or more dental implants to enhance stability and functionality.

Choosing the right dental restoration for your smile

Both dental implants and dentures offer benefits to restore the look and functionality of your smile. If you have missing teeth, the best way to choose the right option is by working with an experienced dental team.

Dr. Saxena and Dr. Patel start with a comprehensive oral exam and a thorough review of your medical history. Dental implants could be a good choice for you if you're missing just one or two teeth. If you need more teeth replaced, dentures could be a viable option. No matter your situation, we discuss your options to help you make an informed decision.

Are you ready to start enjoying a more confident and radiant smile? It's time to learn more about your dental restoration options for missing teeth. Schedule a consultation with us online or call our Austin, Texas, office at 512-886-6734 today.