Deciding between dental implants and partial dentures for a missing tooth may be a tough decision. You most likely want to make the best decision for your vanity, but you also want to make the best decision possible for your wallet. You can decide by weighing a few of the most important factors of both items.
Dental implants are a strong and permanent means of replacing missing or damaged teeth. They function the same way as your natural teeth and allow you to maintain a high quality of daily life. Dental implants use a titanium post in place of a natural tooth root. The post is inserted into the jaw bone, below the gum line creating a firm anchor. A custom-made dental crown is placed over the post, creating a natural-looking and feeling the new tooth. When you’re in need of tooth replacement, we are there to help. Our dentists are devoted to helping patients restore their smiles in a friendly and comfortable environment. You don’t have to suffer from gaps in your smile or fuss with bulky dental appliances. If you’ve lost one or more of your teeth, consult us today.
The Difference
A partial denture is made of plastic or metal, and it can vary in sturdiness and coloring. Dentists usually give plastic partial dentures to patients as temporary devices, and then they switch them to metal devices a little later. Partial dentures are not part of the patient’s teeth. The specialist usually attaches them to the patient’s other teeth with a clasp. Prosthodontic Associates are made of ceramic or acrylic, and a dentist fuses them into the bone. Dental implant installation is a several-step process that requires some numbing and a few visits.
The Cost
A partial denture can be very inexpensive if the patient only needs minimum comfort. For example, you can request the dentist to create a plastic flipper for you that may only cost you about $400. Partial dentures can get on the expensive side, however. Some of the most high-tech partial dentures cost more than $1,000. Still, partial dentures are not the most expensive of the two items. One dental implant can cost between $3,000 and $7,000. Only you know what your budget is and who provides your insurance. Make sure you choose something that you can afford. You may want to see if your insurance company covers any such procedures.
The Appearance
The way that your mouth appears with each of these options depends on the specialist and the materials. Partial dentures can be discolored or missed if you choose inexpensive flipper models. On the other hand, the more expensive partial dentures may look beautiful on you. The dental implant is going to have a more natural appearance because it fuses into your bone and is almost like a member of your mouth.
The Endurance
The endurance is where you will see the biggest difference between the two devices. Partial dentures can last you about three to five years. Dental implants can last you for your entire life if you get the right ones. Your budget will have a lot to do with the decision you make.
Contact a reliable dentist who can speak to you candidly about your choices. Your first meeting will include X-rays of your mouth and a physical examination. You can ask the dentist any questions that you may have about partial dentures and dental implants after you have your examination. He or she will make the best overall recommendation to you.
Additional Benefits Of Dental Implants
Not only are dental implants healthy and versatile, but they provide other benefits to patients including:
- Comfort – Dental implants do require minor oral surgery, but patients typically heal quickly. Once your mouth is healed, you can eat and speak normally, and you can’t tell the difference between your natural teeth and your dental implants.
- Care – Dental implants are easy to care for. You brush and floss them twice a day just as you brush and floss your natural teeth. Your Dental Implants specialist may recommend certain toothbrushes or pastes to help care for your new teeth.
- Permanent – Dentures and partials require adjustments as your jaw bone continues to shrink. But if you take good care of your dental implants, and visit Dental Implants twice a year for checkups, your new teeth can last a lifetime.
- Self-Confidence – Dentures and partials replace teeth, but at a cost to your lifestyle. Many patients find themselves socializing less when they wear dentures because they are afraid of eating or speaking around new people. But dental implants won’t slip or slide out of your mouth, even when you’re eating.
Choose Dental Implants
If you’re serious about maintaining your smile after losing a tooth, you’ll want to choose a dentist who specializes in dental implants. Dental implants specialists devote their practice to permanent tooth replacement. They help patients with even the most complicated dental issues restore their smiles and get back to living their lives. You owe it to yourself to contact us today to learn more about your options for tooth replacement. Whether you’ve lost one tooth, all of your teeth or you’re worried about losing your teeth, our dentists can help. Stop suffering and start living today.