Millions of Americans are either missing a single tooth or completely edentulous. In fact, according to the American Council on Science and Health, over 10% of Americans between the ages of 50 and 64 are toothless. And that increases to almost 25% of Americans over 75. Chances are by the time tooth loss becomes an issue, you’ll consider some type of restorative dental option. Dentures and dental implants are the most common solutions for the older population. But how can you decide which option is best for your needs?
What Is Your Financial or Insurance Range?
Many restorative dental procedures can be partially or even fully covered by dental insurance. However, if your plan is lacking or non-existent, that could be enough to extend the agony and avoidance on your end. Dentures are almost always covered by most plans, but dental implants may require some creative financing solutions. Either option is an investment in your future dental health, but the pros and cons of either should be weighed carefully to ensure the investment is worth it in the long run.
How Much Permanence and Freedom Do You Want or Need?
The days of your grandparents floppy, comical fake teeth soaking in a glass are long gone. Modern dentures are customized to fit the patient’s mouth and needs. Dentures are usually chosen for patients who need a full arch of teeth restoration. The new appliance can reduce up to 70% of the patient’s ability to taste until they’re acclimated. Dentures can be affixed or even attached to a special bridge to ensure they’re secure during usage times. But they will still need to be removed and soaked overnight. Dental implants, on the other hand, are permanent tooth replacement solutions. There’s no removal issues and maintenance is as easy as caring for your natural teeth. But unlike dentures, dental implants are a surgical procedure.
Is Your Jawline Healthy and Stable Enough For Dental Implants?
Dental implants are the top choice for permanent Restorative Dentistry in Suwanee. But unlike dentures, they are invasive. Implantation is a surgical process that requires good previous oral health care habits and a strong mandible (jawbone). This is because the dental implant is composed of two parts: the tooth crown and the abutment–titanium screw. The abutment is first surgically implanted into the jawbone as needed to replace either a single tooth or several. The crown is then screwed on top of the new root after osseointegration and healing have completed. Dentures can still be a feasible option if your jawbone isn’t strong enough for dental implants.
Are You Able to Handle Surgery and Recovery Times?
Dentures are placed in the mouth as soon as all necessary teeth are extracted. There can be some healing or adjustment time to get used to the new device, but it’s minimal compared to dental implants. The implant procedure can take up to a year to complete, depending on the number of implants needed. Healing time and severity depends on the patient’s tolerance and medications used during and after the treatment. If you’re unable to handle the surgical and healing requirements, dentures may be the best option. But otherwise, dental implants can be the perfect permanent solution for Restorative Dentistry in Fort Lauderdale.