When it comes to tooth loss in North Carolina, residents often have one question: dentures or dental implants? After all, these are two of the most popular solutions for missing teeth. Is one better than the other? Do you really need to address missing teeth or can you put it off?
Let’s take a look at dental implants and dentures and see which is the better solution for residents in Pleasant Garden, NC, and the surrounding areas.
Pros and Cons of Dentures
It’s no secret that traditional dentures are the more popular tooth-replacement option. Dentures have been around in some form or fashion since 2,500 B.C. Here are some of the advantages that dentures provide:
- Affordable: Dentures can run from $1,000 to $2,000, on average, so they’re a more affordable solution that dental implants.
- Removable: Some patients like the fact that dentures aren’t permanently affixed to your mouth and you can remove them.
- Facial support: While not as effective as dental implants, dentures provide some support for your face and improve your smile.
That being said, they do have some drawbacks. Here are some of the cons of dentures:
- Inconvenient: Dentures require extra daily care (e.g. creams, adhesives, etc.) and visits every five years or so to replace them. Your diet is also limited.
- Temporary: Dentures aren’t designed to last a lifetime like dental implants.
- Bone support: Dentures don’t stimulate the bone in your mouth, leading to deterioration and wrinkle development.
- Embarrassment: It can be difficult to speak, eat or smile while wearing traditional dentures.
Pros and Cons of Dental Implants
Dental implants, on the other hand, are a newer technology, but one that is definitely worth considering. Dental implants have a 98 percent success rate, on average, and they can last a lifetime with proper care. Here are some of the other benefits of dental implants.
- Beautiful: Dental implants look and function just like your natural teeth. Many people won’t even be able to tell that you have them!
- Long-lasting: Dental implants can last a lifetime with proper care. It’s not uncommon for dental implants to last 20-30 years or more.
- Improved self-esteem: Don’t worry about speaking, smiling or chewing when you have the security and durability of dental implants.
- No diet restrictions: You can eat whatever you want with dental implants!
- Convenient: You can care for dental implants just like the rest of your natural teeth.
The only con of dental implants? They can be a significant investment. But our team will work with you and your budget to find a missing tooth solution that works for you.
If you’re missing teeth in or near Greensboro, NC, contact us today for a free consultation!