Kids and Teeth from Babyhood to University

When dealing with a significant amount of missing teeth, it can be difficult just to eat, speak and live normally. Fortunately, there are two excellent teeth replacement options today: dentures and dental implants. Whilst dentures have been around for longer and are still the most popular option, dental implants are used more widely every day. Here's what you need to know before choosing between dentures and dental implants. 

When Dentures Are Better

Dentures may be the better choice in certain circumstances, including the following two situations. 

• Time is limited: if your time is limited, or if you simply don't want to wait for many months to get teeth replacement, dentures may be the better choice. You'll generally be wearing your new dentures comfortably within just a few months. It can be as much as a year before your dental implants will be complete, as two different dental surgeries are needed.
• Budget is a concern: if budget is one of the top concerns for teeth replacement, dentures may be the right choice. Dentures are generally much less expensive than dental implants, at least in the beginning. Over time, the costs comes close to even because dentures require more frequent replacement than dental implants do.

When Dental Implants Are Better

Dental implants are the best choice for many patients today. If any of the following things are true, dental implants might be right for you. 

• Natural look is essential: if you consider natural looking teeth replacement to be a top priority, dental implants are the ideal option. Each individual dental implant is created based on a mould of the tooth it replaces, allowing for a very natural look. Whilst dentures are also made using a mould, dentures are less finely crafted and are all in one piece. Dental implants are so natural looking that few people will even guess they're not real.
• Stability is important: dental implants are particularly stable because they're implanted surgically inside your jaw. With dental implants, you'll be able to chew, talk and smile fearlessly -- something that's not necessarily true of dentures. Dentures adhere to your gums via suction (and sometimes with the help of dentures adhesive.) This makes them much less stable than dental implants. Certain foods, for example raw vegetables, can dislodge dentures whilst they're easily managed by dental implants. 
• Longevity is a priority: dental implants are far longer-lasting than dentures. Dental implants are permanent -- for most patients, they'll last a lifetime. Dentures need to be repaired or replaced every few years on average. If you're looking for the option that you won't need to replace regularly, dental implants are a great choice. 

Are dental implants better than dentures? It really depends upon your needs and wishes -- but for many patients today, the advantages of dental implants simply can't be beat. Contact your dentist today to discuss teeth replacement today!