Dentures vs. Implants: Answers to Your Questions

About 70% of American adults have at least one missing tooth. The latest generation of dental prosthetics may very well tip your opinion in the comparison of dentures vs. implants. San Antonio dentist Chris Reger often recommends dental implants for patients who need replacement teeth or more stable dentures. These tiny titanium posts are surgically placed in the jaw bone. Unlike traditional dentures, implant-supported restorations will never slip out of place. Many of our patients can even receive a fully functional implant-supported denture in just one appointment. A high level of patient satisfaction is one reason that dental implant procedures are among the most successful surgeries in America. If you have missing teeth or dentures that you are not wearing as often as you would like, contact us today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Reger.

Advantages of Implants

Natural Feel and Function

Traditional dentures are held in place by adhesive, and patients commonly experience looseness, poor fit, slippage, or wobbling. In contrast, dental implants securely attach dentures to the jaw, for a reliable fit. After implants are surgically placed in the jaw, the implant actually fuses to the bone during a process called osseointegration. Bone tissue grows around the implants so that they feel and function like natural teeth roots. Your dentures will not slip or feel loose when attached to implants. With regular care and good oral health, dental implants can last a lifetime. After Dr. Reger performs the initial implant procedure, you may never have to worry about ill-fitting dentures again.

Health Benefits

Implants will also make a big difference in your overall oral health. Because they are securely attached to the bone, implants replace missing teeth’s natural roots. The implants then stimulate the jaw, alerting the body that the jawbone needs to remain dense and strong to hold the implants in place. Without this stimulation, the body sends calcium and phosphorous to other areas, so the jawbone loses density and shrinks.

Daily Care

Unlike traditional dentures that require significant daily care routines, implant-supported restorations should be brushed and flossed like natural teeth. In addition to at-home care, the patient must attend regularly scheduled checkups and cleanings. Implant-supported dentures require no adhesives or natural suction, and they do not need refitting and adjustments like traditional dentures. 

Cost

Cost is a major concern for many patients weighing the benefits of implants and dentures. Because he believes that everyone deserves good oral health and reliable, comfortable oral function, Dr. Reger works to keep the overall cost of implants as low as possible. In many cases, the price of the implants is comparable to the price of traditional restoration support methods. Over the years, implants are more cost effective and can save many trips to the dentist, as well.

Determining Your Treatment Plan

Traditional dentures are a practical and preferred option in some cases. However, dental implants offer many advantages over traditional dentures and deserve serious consideration. During a consultation, Dr. Reger will take time to examine your oral health, discuss your health history and lifestyle factors, and then answer all of your questions about implants and dentures. He will equip you with the facts so that you can make an informed decision about your treatment.  

Learn More During an Appointment

Dr. Reger will do whatever it takes to improve your smile in the least invasive and most cost-effective way possible. Contact us to schedule your implant consultation today.