“Are dental implants better than dentures?”
I have 9 missing teeth. Are dental implants better than dentures?
4 Answers
Dental implants enhance the chewing ability, solve loose denture movement problem, boost self-confidence, and adequate for long-term oral health.
Implants are always better than dentures! Can’t decide until complete evaluation
Dentures are not the best answer if remaining teeth are healthy (not always the case) and even a denture is better if supported and stabilized by implant posts, because without teeth there is continuous bone loss of the ridge that suports the denture ultimately causing an ill fitting denture to held in place with adhesives (not a good thing). Seek out a Prosthodontists for your best answer.
There are pros and cons to both, but overall, if someone can afford it, we prefer implants to dentures for most patients. It is like choosing BMW or a Yugo. The main reason to go with a denture over implants is the cost, but also because they are removable and easier to maintain. However, implants are actually fixed in the mouth, and thus will provide more stability, allow you to chew your food better, will not fall out (if done correctly), and also implants help you keep the level of bone in your jaws (if you clean them well). They will be more like having real teeth. If you cannot commit to cleaning your remaining teeth better, then implants are not for you. However, if you don’t want to lose more teeth, and will make the promise to yourself to floss and brush well, then implants are superior.
In addition, there are combinations where you can have dentures that stay in with a few implants, instead of clasping to your remaining teeth. This is a good compromise. A lot depends on your specific circumstances (are all 9 missing teeth in one jaw, or over both jaws? Which teeth are missing? Are they together or spread out?). There is a lot more to delve into, that I cannot answer the question better without more details. I hope, however, that this gives you some ideas where to start. The best thing would be to at least just get a consult with a dentist versed in implants.
Sincerely,
Max C. Lai, DMD
In addition, there are combinations where you can have dentures that stay in with a few implants, instead of clasping to your remaining teeth. This is a good compromise. A lot depends on your specific circumstances (are all 9 missing teeth in one jaw, or over both jaws? Which teeth are missing? Are they together or spread out?). There is a lot more to delve into, that I cannot answer the question better without more details. I hope, however, that this gives you some ideas where to start. The best thing would be to at least just get a consult with a dentist versed in implants.
Sincerely,
Max C. Lai, DMD
