Tooth Replacement Treatments Compared

For the longest time, dentures have been the most popular method for restoring missing teeth. This is primarily because dentures provide teeth restoration that is both quick and affordable.

However, we receive many complaints about dentures regarding their comfort and reliability. As a result, we’ve received many questions regarding what a better replacement for missing teeth might be. Well, we are happy to tell our Fountain Valley, CA area patients that the solution they are looking for is dental implants. We break down  exactly what sets dental implants apart from treatment using dentures.

Well, we are happy to tell our Fountain Valley, CA area patients that the solution they are looking for is dental implants. We break down  exactly what sets dental implants apart from treatment using dentures.

Stability

Dentures: Unless supported by another restoration, dentures are not permanent. In fact, they can be removed at any time, and they will need to be removed every night for cleaning. While they can be secured in place with an adhesive, they still have a reputation for falling out of place and can even damage your remaining teeth in the process.

Dental Implants: Because dental implants are permanently fused to your jawbone, they should never move out of place. Your jawbone will hold each implant fixture permanently in position, which has the added benefit of allowing you to chew and bite better.

Longevity

Dentures: On average, a pair of dentures will last about 7 years before they will need to be replaced. They can wear out quicker depending on how well you take care of them.

Dental Implants: Unlike dentures, dental implants are permanently embedded in your jawbone. While the porcelain crowns may need to be replaced when damaged or worn, the implants themselves can actually end up lasting you anywhere from 10 years to a lifetime.

Comfort

Dentures: While it is true that dentures are molded to fit the patient’s mouth, over time they can become ill-fitting due to general wear and tear. This can drastically lower the level of comfort they can provide, especially as your jawbone continues to deteriorate.

Dental Implants: Because dental implants are shaped to perfectly fit the space in your jaw, they will work and feel just like natural teeth. This allows for an unprecedented level of comfort, getting rid of any stresses or unbalanced impacts on your jaw when you bite down.

Procedure

Dentures: The typical amount of time between attending your denture consultation and receiving your restoration is typically between six to eight weeks. This time span can naturally vary depending on your personal condition.

Dental Implants: It is true that the dental implant process tends to take longer than other restoration methods, averaging between four and six months, between the consultation and receiving the restoration. However, our patients find that the results possible with implants make them more than worth the extra time necessary for the process to complete.

Replace Your Dentures with Dental Implants

As you can see, there are many differences between dental implants and dentures that make them very different treatments. That said, if you are suffering from one or more missing teeth and would like a more permanent solution, we recommend you pursue treatment with dental implants. If you would like to learn more about dental implants and how they compare to dentures, please contact us and schedule a no-obligation consultation with dental implant provider Dr. Mortensen today. We look forward to working with you soon!