Do you have missing teeth? If you do, you’re not alone. Around 120 million Americans are missing at least one tooth, which is why there are various replacement options to choose from. But how do you know which one is right for you? Two of the best and most common replacement solutions are dentures and dental implants. Read on to learn whether you’d benefit more from dental implants or a denture in Farmington.
What Are Dentures?
Dentures have been used for hundreds of years, and they’re most commonly associated with replacing whole rows of teeth. They’re composed of 2 parts: the plate and the false teeth. The plate is the base for your new smile and it’s typically made of gum-colored resin. Attached is your false teeth, which are made out of a number of materials (usually resin or dental porcelain).
They come in full or partial dentures, meaning they can replace all of your smile or just part of it. This prosthesis rests on top of your gums and it’s completely removeable. Dentures typically last between 5 and 8 years, depending on care.
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are a more permanent solution. These are titanium posts that get placed in your jaw to act as artificial tooth roots. Titanium is biocompatible, so it actually fuses to your bone to create a sturdy and stable support for your restoration (false tooth).
Dental implants can be used to replace one tooth, or many teeth depending on your smile and jawbone health. With proper care, a dental implant in Farmington can last a lifetime, and the restoration itself can last up to 25 years!
Which Tooth Replacement is Better for You?
So, with both of these methods sounding great to replace teeth, how do you know which one is right for you? The best way to know for sure is to schedule a visit with your dentist in Farmington. However, there are some things you can consider when deciding between dental implants and dentures:
- Missing teeth: How many teeth are you missing? If it’s just a few, then dental implants would be a good option. But if you’re missing a whole row of teeth, then you may benefit from dentures.
- Jawbone health: Dental implants need a strong and healthy jawbone to fuse to. So, if you have a weaker jaw, then dentures are probably the best solution.
- Longevity: Are you looking for a long-term solution that’s integrated into your mouth? Or, an easy and quicker solution to replace your teeth? Dental implants are a commitment, while dentures are completely removeable.
These are just a few factors to keep in mind when deciding on a tooth replacement. No matter which one you end up choosing, replacing your teeth will restore the look and feel back to your smile. That means better self-confidence and better oral health!
Meet the Dentist
Dr. James Cole takes pride in providing high quality dentistry to his patients. He loves seeing a boost in his patients’ confidence after receiving tooth replacements for a beautifully whole smile. He currently practices at Integrity Dental, and he can be contacted through his website or by phone at (505) 327-0441 for any questions.