If you have missing teeth and you want to consider replacing them, you might be considering a visit to your Mitcham dentist for dentures or dental implants. Dentures are removable, whereas dental implants stay in your mouth permanently and you cannot take them out. There are several other key differences between the two dental solutions. You will need to think about these differences and talk to your dentist in Mitcham about the best option for you.
Dentures
Dentures, or false teeth, are specially made to fit your mouth. You can have full dentures to replace all of your teeth, or partial dentures to replace only the teeth that are missing. Full dentures rest on your gum, can be secured to your gums with denture adhesive, or can be anchored to your remaining teeth. Partial dentures can be held in place with clasps around your remaining teeth.
Dentures might be the best choice if your gums and jaws are weak or unhealthy. You will need to remove them from your mouth to clean them, brush them on all sides and store them in a special soak overnight.
- They are lightweight, natural-looking and resilient.
- They are designed to fit your mouth so they will feel comfortable.
- They are an affordable way to replace missing teeth and restore confidence.
- You are likely to spend less time in the dentist’s chair for fitting and maintenance.
However, dentures do not stop the natural bone loss process that occurs when teeth are missing. In addition, they are not a permanent solution and if they are not secured properly, dentures can slip out of place when you are eating or speaking.
Dental Implants
Dental implants are like small metal screws. During a minor operation, your Mitcham dentist places the dental implant in your jawbone, where the missing tooth’s roots were. Bone grows around the implant, which helps to hold it in place. Several weeks or months later, your dentist then attaches an artificial tooth to the implant, called a crown. The crown will look just like a natural tooth. Dental implants can also be used to hold a dental bridge or dentures in place.
- Dental implants tend to last longer than bridges and dentures.
- With dental implants, you can eat whatever you like without worrying about dislodging them.
- With dental implants, you help to preserve the health of your jawbone and gum tissue.
- They look like your natural teeth.
However, you will need to consider the cost of dental implants, the healing time and the number of visits you will need to make to see your dentist in Mitcham. Some conditions affect bone healing and people that have these conditions won’t be suitable candidates for the procedure. Also, you will not be suitable for dental implants if you smoke.
Talk to Your Mitcham Dentist for More Advice
If you would like to discuss dentures or dental implants further, please get in touch with us. You can call us, send us an email, or make an appointment between 8 am and 5 pm. On some evenings, we are open later. We also have appointments on Saturdays between 9 am and 2 pm.
Sources:
https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/dental-implant
https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/dentures
https://www.smile.com.au/dental-treatments/implants
https://oralb.com/en-us/oral-health/life-stages/adults/implants-vs-dentures/
