7 Reasons To Choose Dental Implants Instead Of Dentures

When a person has to pay all -- or a substantial portion -- of the cost for a full set of dental implants out of their own pocket, it can be difficult to persuade them to choose implants over dentures. Dentures are less expensive than implants, but they have numerous disadvantages. If you're trying to make this decision, consider the problems associated with dentures before choosing a type of artificial teeth. 

Problems With Dentures

Jawbone and Gum Deterioration

In the human body, bone that does not experience use and stimulation loses density and strength. Teeth roots stimulate the jawbone, prompting it to keep adding new bone cells as old ones gradually disintegrate in the normal cell replacement process. Implants have the same effect as teeth roots, but dentures do not, since they sit on top of the gums. This leads to bone loss in the jaw, eventually making the lower facial area appear shrunken.

The problem may escalate as the individual ages and becomes more prone to osteoporosis throughout the body. Women after menopause are especially at risk of osteoporosis. 

A similar effect happens with the gums. They also begin to shrink when no tooth roots are in place. 

Cleaning Inconvenience

Dental implants need to be brushed and flossed, just as normal teeth do. Properly cleaning dentures, however, requires removing them for brushing and soaking. 

Gum Irritation

Dentists recommend that patients keep dentures out of their mouths for several hours every day to give their gums a rest. Soaking the dentures can be done during this time. However, this means a denture wearer is likely to be seen without teeth unless he or she lives alone and never has surprise company. 

Even when a patient follows these instructions, gum irritation still may develop simply because the devices sit on the gums and may rub against the skin during chewing. Occasionally, sores may develop. 

Inability to Chew Certain Foods

Denture wearers tend to have problems eating foods that require pulling and tearing with the teeth. Corn on the cob, whole apples and sticky candy are prime examples. Pulling beef or pork meat off rib bones with the teeth also can be problematic. 

Artificial Appearance

Unless a person pays for high-end dentures made of composite acrylic resin and crafted to look as much like normal teeth as possible, these false teeth tend to look artificial upon close viewing. The gum part of the dentures also can look unnatural. The best dentures cost significantly more than other kinds, which makes the price difference between them and implants less dramatic. 

Improper Fit

As the bone and gum structure changes because no teeth roots are there, dentures gradually lose their precise fit. This can lead to them coming loose when a person eats, laughs or sneezes. Instead of paying for relining or for a new set, denture wearers often resort to using adhesive. This may not be totally effective, and it adds to the inconvenience factor. In addition, the improper fit leads to worsening gum irritation. 

Negative Taste Sensation Effects

Denture adhesives can affect the way foods and beverages taste. Another problem involves upper dentures, since a plate covers the roof of the mouth. Most taste buds are located on the tongue, but the upper part of the mouth has some as well. Covering them diminishes the taste sensation. This may be particularly troubling to older people who have already lost some taste sensation due to aging. 

Relevant Statistics 

Dentists recommend dental implants over dentures for all these reasons. Talk with a dentist about these advantages and determine whether the benefits are worth the extra expense to you. Statistics indicate that you are substantially more likely to be satisfied with dental implants. 

A survey conducted in 2011 found that only 5 percent of denture wearers felt completely satisfied with their false teeth. Some 48 percent said they were not happy with their dentures. 

In contrast, a study published in 2005 discovered that more than 90 percent of questionnaire respondents were completely satisfied with their dental implants. 

For more information about the best option for replacing your teeth, contact a local clinic like The Center For Progressive Dentistry . 

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