If your quality of life is affected by one or more missing teeth, we want to help. Today, we invite you to consider dental implants and dentures, two restorative treatments we offer here at Hooks Family Dentistry. While both treatments are designed to restore both the appearance and function of your missing natural teeth, there are several important differences between dental implants and dentures. We’ve put together the following information to help you decide whether dental implants or dentures may be the right choice for your smile.
What Are Dentures?
Dentures are a removable appliance you wear over your gums consisting of a gum-like acrylic base with realistic-looking false teeth attached. We can use dentures to replace a full arch of teeth, or if you’re only missing a few teeth we can use partial dentures that are anchored by neighboring teeth. Typical dentures are held in place throughout the day by dental adhesive and must be removed at night for cleaning. Implant-supported dentures are another option, which snap onto several dental implants along your gums. These must still be removed for cleaning, but do not need to be secured with dental adhesive. Additionally, the dental implants help prevent deterioration of your jawbone.
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are a long-lasting solution to missing teeth that involves a three-step procedure. First, you will have a consultation with our team to determine whether dental implants are the right choice for your smile and your goals. If we agree that dental implants are right for you and that your jaw and gums are healthy, we will schedule your implant procedure. During this visit, our team will surgically implant a biocompatible titanium post in your jaw. This post serves as an anchor for a restoration and helps fortify your jawbone to prevent bone loss. Once the surgical site has healed, you will come back for your next visit and we will place your custom-created restoration on top, such as a crown or bridge. Dental implant restorations are designed to match your natural teeth, so once the procedure is complete, no one else will know that your implant is not a natural tooth!
Pros & Cons Depend on Your Situation
Our team will help you determine which treatment is the best option for restoring your smile. Many of our patients appreciate the permanence and ease of maintenance with dental implants, but some patients prefer the affordability and noninvasiveness of dentures. To ask our team any questions or to schedule a consultation, contact our office today! Contact Us
Dental implants are a long-lasting solution to missing teeth that involves a three-step procedure. First, you will have a consultation with our team to determine whether dental implants are the right choice for your smile and your goals. If we agree that dental implants are right for you and that your jaw and gums are healthy, we will schedule your implant procedure. During this visit, our team will surgically implant a biocompatible titanium post in your jaw. This post serves as an anchor for a restoration and helps fortify your jawbone to prevent bone loss. Once the surgical site has healed, you will come back for your next visit and we will place your custom-created restoration on top, such as a crown or bridge. Dental implant restorations are designed to match your natural teeth, so once the procedure is complete, no one else will know that your implant is not a natural tooth! 