Both dental implants and dentures are excellent options for replacing missing teeth. But if you’re trying to choose between the two, you might be wondering whether one is better for your oral health than the other.
The short answer is that yes, dental implants are actually better for your oral health than traditional dentures. To get the long answer and understand why, keep reading!
Missing Teeth & Jawbone Loss
When you have missing teeth, your dentist will recommend getting a replacement as soon as possible. This is because over time, your jawbone will start to shrink. Without the stimulation provided by a dental root and crown, the bone can’t get the nutrients it needs in order to maintain itself.
The problem with jawbone deterioration is that it will cause your oral structure to shift. Facial skin that would normally be lifted by the bone can start to sag, creating a tired, aged appearance. And any natural teeth remaining in your smile will gradually lose crucial support. They might drift out of place or become loose entirely. Finally, your bite can be affected as well, potentially leading to orthodontic issues.
How Dentures Impact Jawbone Loss
Filling your dental gaps with customized dentures can slow down the rate of jawbone loss. Since they sit directly on top of your gums, some stimulation is transferred from the crowns of the false teeth to the jawbone.
Your jawbone will ultimately still experience some deterioration, though. As this occurs, your dentures won’t fit as well as they used to, and you’ll have to get them relined or replaced regularly. Otherwise, the poor fit could actually accelerate jawbone loss!
Why Dental Implants are Better for Your Oral Health
Dental implants are unique because they can completely prevent jawbone loss. The biocompatible implant posts fuse with the bone, mimicking the structure of a natural tooth and dental root. Thanks to this feat, dental implants are able to transfer far more stimulation to the jawbone and stop deterioration in its tracks.
As an added bonus, dental implant restorations can go much longer on average without needing repairs or replacements. In fact, when taken care of properly, they’ve been known to last a lifetime!
In Conclusion
Ultimately, the best tooth replacement for you and your smile will depend on your personal needs and preferences. Many patients who get dentures still enjoy their restoration. All this is simply to say that dental implants can be better for your oral health long-term, which is a factor worth considering. Talk to your dentist about your options, and they’ll help you make an informed decision.
About the Author
Dr. Kevin Labosky has over 25 years of experience in dentistry, and knows all to well that no two patients – or smiles – are exactly the same. If you need to replace one or more missing teeth in State College, he’ll thoroughly review your options with you and help make sure you feel confident in your treatment plan. Whether you choose dental implants or traditional dentures, Dr. Labosky and his team will provide you with a lifelike restoration. To contact his office and schedule a consultation, call 814-237-7004.