Dentures vs. Dental Implants: What’s the Difference?

Dentures and dental implants are both used to replace missing teeth, but they do so in different ways. If you’ve been wondering exactly what the differences are between these two popular treatment options, here’s a brief overview:

Placement Process

Dentures are molded to fit your around your gums, but they still need to be held in place with special pastes. Dental implants, on the other hand, are surgically placed in your jaw bone. To perform the implant placement procedure, your dentist in Leesburg, VA, drills into the bone beneath the tooth loss site, then inserts a ridged implant post into the hole. Your jaw bone grows around the post while the area is left alone to heal, then the top of the post is uncovered and an abutment is attached to it. A natural-looking crown is then placed on top of the abutment to restore the look and function of your teeth.

Removable Versus Fixed

Traditional denture appliances are removable, which means you can take them out whenever you want to. People with dentures take usually take them out at night and for cleaning purposes. Dental implants are not removable and are designed to remain permanently in the mouth. They should be brushed and flossed daily just like regular teeth to maintain good oral health.

Bone Health

Since denture appliances are placed superficially on top of the gum tissue, they don’t have the ability to stimulate the bone of the jaw. When the bone isn’t stimulated, it starts to break down and lose mass. Dental implant posts keep this from happening because they come in direct contact with the jaw bone and give it consistent stimulation.

Durability

Traditional dentures often need to be replaced every few years as the shape of the gums and mouth change. Dental implants, on the other hand, can potentially last for 20 years or longer before needing replacement.

Learn More

Drs. Gary Ashton, Hugo Manrique, Christine Han and Nassir Barekzi offer leading dental implant placement. To learn more about the process or to schedule your appointment, call Cardinal Park Family Dental Care. 

Share this post

Share on facebook
Share on google
Share on twitter
Share on linkedin
Share on pinterest
Share on print
Share on email
Secured By miniOrange