The Benefits Of Dental Implants Versus Dentures
For generations, dentures were the go-to solution for missing or severely-decayed teeth. These artificial teeth were originally made of wood, but more recently have been constructed of porcelain to mimic the look of natural teeth. A more modern solution to missing teeth is dental implants. Unlike dentures, these artificial teeth are anchored directly into your jaw and don't have to be removed at night. If you're looking for a way to improve your smile and make it easier to enjoy your favorite foods, it's important to weigh the pros and cons of dentures vs. implants before you make a final decision.
Things to consider when choosing implants vs. dentures
1. Cost. There is a considerable cost difference between dentures and implants. The average cost for dentures is around $1,300 for a complete set, according to Angie's List. Implants can cost around $3,000 or more for a single tooth.
2. Time. The process of having dental implants installed in your mouth can take several months compared to just a few weeks for dentures. Getting dental implants requires not only visits to your dentist, but oral surgery to have the titanium anchors installed. Only after your jaw heals completely from this procedure can the platinum "teeth" be fitted over the anchors.
3. Durability. Dental implants are very durable and can last for up to 20 years. Conversely, dentures have an average lifespan of around five years, according to Angie's List.
4. Ease of use. Implants are permanently embedded into your jaw, but dentures must be removed at night to clean. They are also more prone to slipping and falling out when you talk or eat.
5. Aesthetics. Arguably, dental implants are more life-like than dentures since they are created as singular teeth, not as a row of teeth anchored together. Their appearance is also enhanced by their not being prone to slipping as dentures can be.
6. Dental insurance. Most dental plans do not cover implants or dentures unless they are deemed by your doctor to be medically necessary. However, many pre-tax flexible spending accounts do allow you to use money in these accounts to pay for these procedures, making your investment in improving your smile tax-free.
Dental implants are real-looking, durable and work very similar to your original teeth. However, it's important to evaluate the pros and cons of this type of dental solutions, especially the cost and time factors, before you decide to opt for implants.
For a local dentist, contact a dentist such as Joe Rosenberg, DDS.
Share
