When to Consider Dental Implants Over Dentures

Having one or more missing teeth can make life difficult. When you decide to get this problem fixed, you’re doing a service not only to your self-image but to your oral health. But how do you know if dentures or dental implants are the right choice? 

At Downtown Dental Studio, we offer both dentures and implants. Our providers, Fadi Beydoun, DMD, MS, Alexander Kimon, DMD, and Karina Zaygermakher, DMD, work hard to help patients choose the best option for their needs. And if you’re already considering dental implants, we’d be happy to help you determine if this is the right fit.   

Dentures vs. dental implants

Dental implants are similar to dentures in that they are artificial replacements for missing teeth that look and feel like your own. Unlike dentures, however, they involve inserting a post into your jawbone that stabilizes the tooth replacements. Dental implants require surgery and will be a permanent, unremovable fixture in your mouth.  

You’ve probably already heard of dentures. Maybe you even know someone who wears them. There are several different types of dentures, including standard, partial, and cosmetic. In some cases, dental implants are even used to anchor dentures, although they will still be removable.  

Deciding between dentures and dental implants can take time, but all things considered, some patients are better served by the latter. If you are in this situation, your provider may recommend implants over dentures. 

When to get dental implants instead of dentures 

1. You’re only missing one or a few teeth.

Although this isn’t always the case, people who only miss one or a few teeth will often benefit from implants. This is because they can be placed beside your natural teeth without you having to feel much of a difference. 

2. You have concerns about dentures.

Dentures have many disadvantages that many people dislike. For one, they can sometimes come loose while you are eating or talking. They also require a fair bit of maintenance, with having to remove, clean, and replace them often. Dental implants function like natural teeth, so the maintenance they require is more like regular oral health upkeep. 

3. You are younger. 

Sometimes, a younger person may not want to deal with dentures for the rest of their life. Dental implants are a permanent solution, which makes them popular among younger populations. Dental implants among 55 to 64-year-olds increased by nearly 1,000% between 1999 and 2018. Of course, this also doesn’t mean older adults can’t benefit from dental implants. 

4. You are prepared for the recovery time.

Getting dental implants takes longer to recover from because it’s a form of surgery. If you understand this and are prepared to take the time to recover, dental implants are an excellent long-term solution as compared to the quicker option of dentures. 

5. You want to protect your jawbone density. 

Dentures can help immensely protect your oral health from the pitfalls of missing teeth. Unfortunately, the only thing they can’t do is protect you from bone deterioration. Having the post fitted into your jawbone, however, allows your dental implant to function like a regular tooth, stabilizing and protecting the jawbone in addition to its other duties. 

This is not to say having dentures will cause erosion to the jawbone, but over time, it could be a concern. Dental implants are often the way to go if you are young and want the best long-term solution for your comfort and oral health. 

Are you ready for dental implants?

Every patient is different, so we recommend discussing your oral health with a provider to determine the best course of action for your treatment. If you’re ready to talk dental implants, make an appointment today with our online tool or call our New York City, NY office at 212-964-3337.