Dental Implants vs. Dentures

When you really think about it, a smile is the facial expression that allows us to actively engage with others. Because of this, no one wants a mouth that has chipped or missing teeth. This situation lowers our self confidence when interacting with people. If teeth are in really bad condition, a decision has to be made between dental implants and dentures. Our dentist Clarksville TN can help you determine which is best for you and how you can have the best smile possible.

Implants are single replacement teeth made of titanium or ceramic that are inserted into the bone.

Advantages
Teeth are stable and very natural looking. They will not move or shift. Any type of food can be eaten. You can clean the teeth just as you would your normal teeth. They are durable, comfortable and will last about 25 years.

Disadvantages
The costs are not covered under insurance. Bones and gums must be healthy before having the surgical procedure. They are expensive. A single implant can range from $1,000 to $5,000 each. An entire set can cost between $24,000 to $100,000. The healing process may take a while, and there is limited use during this time. A periodontist Tennessee consultation should provide more information.

Dentures are replacement teeth that are removable. There are full dentures and partial dentures. The full dentures are molded to fit the person’s mouth. The partial dentures replace only a few teeth and stop the other teeth from shifting in the mouth.

Advantages
Dentures are natural in appearance. They are made of acrylic resin and metal. This material is very durable and strong and can last from five to 10 years. The costs for dentures range between $500 to $1,500 for either lowers or uppers. Over 50% of people will choose dentures because of the cost, and dentures can be fitted in a short period of time. It would be wise to consult a dentist Clarksville TN for more information.

Disadvantages
It may take some time adjusting to dentures. They might initially cause soreness. There is bone and gum tissue shrinkage when using dentures. If proper hygiene is not maintained, sores could occur. They must be taken out and soaked in a denture solution when not in the mouth. Even though dentures may last up to 10 years, the shape of the mouth often changes, and dentures might need to be replaced.

Contact our dentist Clarksville TN today to schedule a consultation and discuss your options.