If you have lost one or more teeth, or are facing the loss of teeth, you have to decide whether dentures or will serve you better.
These are both good options, but they’re not equally right for all people. Here’s a decision guide to help you decide which one is best for you.
Are You a Smoker or User of Tobacco Products?
Smokers and users of other tobacco products experience worse results from dental implants. If you’re a regular smoker and don’t think you’ll be able to quit, dental implants may not be right for you. This goes for e-cigarettes and other nicotine delivery systems, because nicotine is one of the suspected chemicals. Dentures give good results for smokers, however.
Do You Have Periodontal Disease?
Periodontal disease can have a major negative impact on dental implants. People with chronic periodontal disease are at an increased risk for dental implant complications (including dental implant failure). Dentures, on the other hand, can often give very good results for people with periodontal disease.
What’s Your Oral Hygiene Like?
This relates to the question above. To maintain your dental implants, you’ll need to take good care of your teeth, perhaps even better than you did your natural teeth. Dentures also need a good amount of oral hygiene to keep your mouth healthy, but may be less susceptible to variations in your routine.
Longevity of Results
Dentures can last many years if properly cared for, but dental implants can last many decades, though they may need to have their dental crowns replaced more often, perhaps once a decade.
Value
Dental implants are significantly more expensive than dentures. It’s a hard thing to commit to, but for many people, the dental implant procedure gives unequalled results. Dentures these days are not only beautiful, they’re secure, but they’re still not as secure as dental implants.
During your consultation, we will talk about all these factors and more to help you find the right tooth replacement option for you.
To schedule your consultation with Dr. Rice, please contact Rice Dentistry in Irvine, California today.
