According to statistics presented by the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons, almost 70 percent of adults are missing at least one tooth. Not only are most people who are missing teeth more self-conscious, they also often have trouble speaking or eating properly. Fortunately, there are steps a person can take to restore his or her smile. Dental implants and dentures are the two most common treatments.
The Basics of Dental Implants
Dental implants are replacement teeth that are surgically implanted into the patient’s jawbone. Although implants are most often used to replace a single missing tooth, more patients are choosing to use them to replacement multiple missing teeth, a procedure that can be done with the use of at least two separate implants. Implants are very long lasting, often remaining intact for decades with the proper care, and they look quite natural and are easy to take care of. They also help to stimulate the jaw bone where a tooth or teeth is lost, helping to prevent facial sagging. However, they are more expensive than traditional dentures. In order for implants to heal correctly, the patient must have healthy gums and jawbones for surgical procedures.
The Basics of Dentures
Dentures are false teeth that restore functionality and some aesthetic, but that can—and should—be removed and cleaned at the end of the day. Dentures are available in a wide range of styles in order to match a patient’s natural teeth as closely as possible. They can replace several teeth or an entire mouth full of missing teeth. While dentures are usually more affordable, they require more work to keep clean, often do not last as long as dental implants, and do not provide support for the jaw bone. Despite this, they are still a good option for people who need to restore functionality and aesthetic on a budget or who cannot get surgery because of poor gums or jawbones.
When it comes to which treatment is the right one, it depends solely on the patient’s needs. Dr. Richard F. Amato is an experienced periodontist who offers dental implants and dentures in Monroe, CT. For more information, call us at (203) 712-0917.
