Dental Implants vs. Dentures: Here’s Who Wins

In terms of restorative options, there are several to choose from when faced with missing teeth. Traditional dentures were the top choice for many years until dental implants arrived and became more appealing. Our Mullins dental implant dentist stands by the effectiveness of the procedure and recommends them to eligible patients.

Here’s what you need to know about dental implants and why they win when compared to traditional dentures.

With Dental Implants, You:

Don’t Have to Worry About Them Slipping or Shifting

The primary complaint about dentures is that they slip at times when they shouldn’t. Maybe they shift while you’re talking or are moved out of place when eating. Whenever it is, it’s usually at an inopportune time.

Dental implants, on the other hand, are permanently fused to your jawbone allowing them to firmly remain in place. In addition, no adhesives are required to keep them from moving around in your mouth. You are free to go about your day just as you would with natural teeth.

Can Eat What You Like

Unlike with dentures, eating is not restricted if you have dental implants. After Dr. Blevins performs the dental implant procedure and healing is complete, implants function exactly like your existing teeth.

This means that you do not have to avoid certain foods like caramel, apples, or corn on the cob that may otherwise damage dentures. Many patients with dental implants also report being able to chew more comfortably because they are permanently affixed.

Are Less Likely to Develop Gum Disease

Proper oral hygiene must be practiced regularly with both dentures and dental implants. If cleaning is ignored, plaque can accumulate and result in other oral complications.

There is less risk, however, of trapped food leading to gum disease or infection if you have dental implants. This is because dentures have to be removed and thoroughly cleaned on a regular basis to rid them of food particles left behind.

If your dentures are not cleaned often, plaque will build up and negatively affect surrounding gum tissue or other teeth.

Can Brush and Floss Like Normal

With dental implants, all you need to do in terms of care is brush at least twice a day and floss daily. They are to be treated like your natural teeth and you can freely eat foods that are sticky or crunchy without worry.

Dental implants are also less likely to require future corrective dental procedures or replacement. In addition, further jawbone deterioration is a non-issue as bones and adjacent teeth are preserved.

When cared for properly, dental implants remain strong for decades.

Can Choose to Pair Them With Dentures

At Blevins Dentistry, we do offer a blended restorative option known as snap-in dentures. Also called overdentures or implant-supported dentures, this form of tooth replacement involves surgically placing dental implants into a patient’s jawbone to hold the dentures in place.

The presence of the implants is what provides added stability. It is important to remember that your mouth does need to be completely healed before your snap-in dentures can be placed by Dr. Blevins. However, you will be given immediate dentures to wear in the meantime.

Ready to Choose Dental Implants?

Our dental implant dentist in Mullins, SC, is here to help you rebuild your smile. If you’re not sold on dentures, we can discuss the dental implant procedure with you and determine whether you’re a good candidate. Call Blevins Dentistry today at (843) 561-4039 to request an appointment and get started.