If you’ve lost most or all of your teeth, you’re probably considering whether to get dental implants or dentures. Given how important your smile is to you, it’s a big decision!

At Smile Design Dental, we’re happy to help. We’ll explain both options and answer all your questions. Call 845-670-5423 today to schedule an implant consultation in our Newburgh, NY office. 

In the meantime, review our list of six important factors to consider:

  • Your Dental Condition
  • Cost
  • Chewing Strength
  • Confidence
  • Maintenance
  • Long-Term Oral Health

For Either Dental Implants or Dentures, Your Need a Healthy Mouth

No matter which kind of replacement teeth you choose, we’ll want your mouth to be in great shape so it’s ready to receive them. In particular, you need healthy gums. If you’ve had gum disease in the past six months or so, we’ll want to make sure all signs of disease are gone.

Implants require a strong jaw. If it’s been a while since you’ve lost teeth, you’ve likely lost bone density. You may need a bone graft or similar treatment to strengthen your jaw enough to support them. Dr. Petrosino, a fellow of the International Congress of Oral Implantologists, can perform these procedures.

Consider Lifetime Cost of Replacement Teeth

Dental implants are more expensive than dentures. We encourage you to carefully consider the benefits of both, so you can determine if implants are worth the added expense to you. We offer a procedure called an All-on-4® , which involves using just few implants to support complete arches of replacement teeth. If you’re eligible for this treatment, it’s one of the most cost effective methods of full-mouth restoration with implants.

While dentures do cost less than implants, you will need to regularly purchase tablets or other cleaning solutions as well as denture adhesive. You’ll also likely need to have dentures relined occasionally to adjust their fit.

Implants Stay in Place Better Than Dentures

One of the biggest differences when it comes to dental implants or dentures is how well they stay in place. Dentures sit on your gums and are held in place by suction. Most dentures wearers also use adhesive for added holding power. In contrast, implants are embedded in your jaw. Once dentures are attached to implants, they aren’t going anywhere!

With implant dentures, you’ll have more chewing power so you’ll be able to eat a greater variety of foods. Plus, you won’t need to worry about the embarrassing experience of dentures that come loose while you’re eating or speaking.

Implants Are Easier to Care for Than Dentures

With implant dentures, you simply care for your smile as you always have. You brush and floss daily and visit us regularly for dental cleanings. In contrast, dentures must be removed for cleaning, and you’ll need special cleaning solutions to remove bacteria from them.

Dental Implants Keep Your Jaw Intact

You’ve probably noticed how the faces of people who wear dentures develop a shrunken appearance over time that often makes them appear older than they are. This occurs since your jawbone shrinks after losing teeth. Dentures will also need to be relined periodically to maintain a snug fit when this happens.

Once they are embedded in your jaw, dental implants stimulate your bone the same way that natural tooth roots do. This keeps it strong and healthy. Your face will look fuller and younger.

There is a lot to consider when deciding whether to get dental implants or dentures! Call us today at 845-670-5423, and we’ll help in any way we can.