Are you missing one or more teeth? You’re not alone. Millions of American adults (and many right here in Carlsbad) are affected by tooth loss due to accidents, decay, disease, or age.
Dealing with missing teeth and choosing a treatment option for replacement can be confusing for Carlsbad dental patients. There are two primary options you have if you want to return to a complete smile – dentures and implants. Each has advantages and disadvantages.
What are dentures?
Dentures can either replace all of your natural teeth or just specific areas of missing teeth (called a partial denture). These removable, non-permanent prosthetics are custom-created by Carlsbad dentists and dental laboratories to fit in your mouth and appear like natural teeth.
Advantages of dentures
- More affordable than dental implants
- Can be a temporary option for those who just had their teeth removed and who want time for their mouth to heal before dental implant surgery
- Dentures or partial dentures can be modified if more teeth are lost later in life
Disadvantages of dentures
- They may not look as natural as dental implants
- Must be removed, cleaned, and stored properly every night
- Require adhesive to stay in place which can get costly over time
- Can slip while eating and talking which can be uncomfortable
- May not allow you to eat all the foods you want to eat such as corn, apples, or things with tiny seeds
- Can increase the likelihood of gum disease if they aren’t cleaned properly or if food gets trapped
- Delicate and can break easily, requiring a brand new replacement prosthetic
- A partial denture can weaken the teeth supporting it, leading to additional problems
What are dental implants?
Dental implants can replace one or more missing teeth. But unlike dentures, implants are permanent. A titanium post is placed into the jaw bone where it will act as your tooth root. As it heals, your bone will actually grow around the post, securely locking it into place. Afterward, an abutment is added to the post, and a brand new custom crown is placed on top. If multiple teeth are missing, a few posts may be implanted by your Carlsbad dentist into your bone then a full set of brand new teeth will be permanently secured to them, giving you a brand new look.
Advantages of dental implants
- Tend to be more comfortable than dentures
- No food restrictions
- You can care for them just like your natural teeth
- Can last for decades with proper care
- Reduce the risk of additional oral health problems compared to dentures
Disadvantages of dental implants
- More expensive than dentures
- Require a surgical procedure
- Not everyone is a candidate for implants
We can help you decide.
If you are missing any teeth and have questions about dentures or implants, schedule a consultation with Dr. Addy, your Carlsbad denture and implant dentist, to discuss your options and take your first step to a more beautiful smile!
