Do you feel self-conscious about missing teeth? Missing teeth can affect more than just your smile, they can impact your oral health and confidence. Luckily, there are ways to restore your smile beyond traditional dentures. Dental implants offer a solution that looks and feels more like natural teeth and lasts much longer.
What Are Dental Implants and Dentures?
Before deciding which option is better for you, it helps to know how implants and dentures work. Dental implants are small posts, usually made of titanium, that an oral surgeon inserts into your jawbone. They act like roots for replacement teeth, creating a sturdy base for crowns or bridges.
Dentures, on the other hand, are removable replacements for missing teeth. They sit on your gums and are often held in place with adhesives. While dentures can restore basic function and appearance, they don’t provide the same level of stability as implants.
A Natural Look and Feel
Dental implants are a top choice for many because they look and feel so much like natural teeth. Since the implant fuses with your jawbone, it stays firmly in place. This allows you to enjoy your favorite meals and speak clearly without worrying about your teeth slipping.
Dentures, however, can move or click when you chew or talk. Since they rest on your gums instead of anchoring in the jaw, they don’t offer the same secure fit. Implants give you confidence to smile, eat, and laugh freely.
Long-Lasting Strength
Dental implants stand out as much more durable than dentures. Made from titanium, they bond with the jawbone and can last a lifetime with good care. This makes them a smart long-term solution for missing teeth.
Dentures typically last 5 to 7 years before they need replacement or adjustments. Over time, changes in your jawbone can make dentures fit poorly, leading to discomfort and extra costs. While dentures are less expensive upfront, the long-term maintenance can add up.
Protecting Your Jawbone
One of the hidden benefits of dental implants is how they protect your jawbone. When a tooth is lost, the bone underneath begins to shrink because it’s no longer being used. Dental implants mimic natural teeth by stimulating the bone, helping it stay strong and healthy.
Dentures don’t provide this stimulation since they sit on top of the gums. Over time, the jawbone can shrink, leading to a sunken look in your face. This can affect both your appearance and the way dentures fit, causing further discomfort.
Comfort and Confidence
Implants feel natural because they are securely attached to your jawbone. You don’t have to worry about slipping, clicking, or irritation, which is common with dentures. This means you can go about your day without worrying about your teeth moving out of place.
Dentures, while useful, can sometimes cause sore spots or require adhesive to stay put. For those seeking more comfort and reliability, implants are a clear winner.
Improved Speech
If you’ve worn dentures, you might know how they can affect the way you talk. Dentures can sometimes slip, making it hard to pronounce certain words. Dental implants eliminate this problem by staying firmly in place. They allow you to speak clearly and confidently, just as if they were your natural teeth.
Simple Care
Caring for dental implants is easy and similar to caring for natural teeth. You simply brush, floss, and visit your dentist regularly to keep them in good shape. Dentures, on the other hand, need special cleaning solutions, regular adjustments, and careful handling to avoid damage.
Why Choose Dental Implants?
Dental implants offer a range of benefits that dentures can’t match:
- They look and feel like real teeth.
- They are strong and long-lasting.
- They protect your jawbone from shrinking.
- They are more comfortable and don’t slip.
- They allow you to speak and eat with confidence.
- They are easy to care for, just like natural teeth.
If you’re ready to reclaim your smile and enjoy a better quality of life, dental implants might be the right choice for you. Call our Virginia Beach office at 757-656-6368 to schedule a consultation. Let us help you decide if dental implants are the solution you’ve been looking for!