Dental Implants vs DenturesCary, NC

At Kildaire Family & Cosmetic Dentistry in Cary, NC, we often suggest dental implants as a long-lasting solution to replace missing teeth. Here’s a guide to help you understand both dental implants and dentures, including the pros and cons of each choice.

Dental Implants vs Dentures Cary NC

What Are Dentures?

Dentures are a common way to replace missing teeth. They are made with a base that looks like gums, typically using a pink plastic material. This base holds artificial teeth, usually made of tooth-colored resin or porcelain. Dentures stay in place with a suction seal to your gums, but you may need to use adhesive for a more secure fit.

Taking care of dentures is essential. You need to remove them daily for cleaning, as food particles and bacteria can quickly build up. We also suggest removing them for six to eight hours each day, which lets your gums rest and reduces irritation.

Pros of Dentures

Dentures are quick to make and get fitted. Your dentist will take impressions and measurements, which are sent to a lab to make your new teeth. Within a month, you can have a full set of replacement teeth. Dentures also cost much less than dental implants, making them an affordable option.

Cons of Dentures

One downside is that dentures do not replace the roots of missing teeth. The bone in your jaw relies on roots to stay strong. Without roots, you may experience bone loss over time, which can change the shape of your face and make dentures fit poorly. Many people who wear dentures may appear older due to this bone loss.

Dentures also don’t provide the same chewing strength as natural teeth. They offer only about 30% to 40% of regular chewing power, which can make it hard to enjoy certain foods. Since dentures may shift, it can be difficult to talk, eat, and smile comfortably. For some, adjusting to wearing dentures can be challenging.

Understanding Dental Implants

Dental implants are a method to replace missing teeth using metal posts placed in your jawbone. These posts are usually made of titanium, a biocompatible material, and over a few months, they bond with your jawbone. The implants act as new roots for your teeth, holding a set of replacement teeth firmly in place.

With implants, the denture can either be attached to the implants with screws or snapped onto them, making it removable for cleaning. After examining your teeth and jaw, Dr. Zhang will decide how many implants you need and what kind of denture would work best.

Pros of Dental Implants

Implants are strong and stable, making implant-supported dentures feel more natural. Since they’re anchored to the bone, you’ll have more chewing power, so you can enjoy a wide variety of foods. Plus, you won’t have to worry about them slipping out of place.

Implants also help prevent bone loss by stimulating the jawbone, similar to how natural tooth roots do. This support keeps your jawline firm, helping you maintain the natural shape of your face. People with dental implants often report feeling more confident, as their teeth look and feel almost as natural as real teeth.

Cons of Dental Implants

The main drawback of implants is the cost. They are more expensive than dentures because of the materials, the surgical steps, and the time involved. You’ll need multiple appointments, and the process can take up to a year, depending on your situation.

Another factor is that you must be healthy enough for the procedure. Dental implants require enough bone tissue for support, so if you have low bone density, additional procedures may be needed to build up the bone.

Choosing Between Implants and Dentures

If you’re looking for a cost-effective, quicker solution, dentures may be the right choice. They’re easy to get and don’t involve surgery. However, they may feel less secure and could require adjustments over time.

If you want a more permanent and natural-feeling solution, dental implants offer durability and strength. Although the initial cost is higher and the process takes more time, many people find that the long-term comfort and function of implants make them worth the investment.

Ready to Decide?

If you’re considering dental implants or dentures, Dr. Zhang at Kildaire Family & Cosmetic Dentistry can help you explore your options. We’ll examine your oral health, discuss your goals, and work with you to find the right fit for your lifestyle.

To learn more, give us a call at 919-823-7107 or book a consultation on our website. We’re here to help you smile confidently again! To learn more about dental implants, see: