Implants vs. Dentures in Rocky Hill: What’s the Big Difference?

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Sometimes the classic solution to a problem is the best choice. Other times it’s better to go with a newer approach. This is often the case when it comes to implants vs. adhesive dentures in Rocky Hill. Implants offer substantial advantages that are well worth considering when deciding between tooth restoration options.

Adhesive Dentures: The Upsides and the Downsides of a Traditional Approach

Adhesive dentures have been around in one form or another for over a hundred years. During that time they have helped millions of people to enjoy better smiles and an improved quality of life. But it’s important to consider the drawbacks as well as the benefits of a tooth restoration method. When it comes to dentures, here are the disadvantages:

• Dentures require adhesive creams. This is especially true for the lower jaw, which is a good deal less stable than the upper jaw.
• Dentures require relining every few years. That’s because they cannot prevent resorption, a condition in which the jawbone loses integrity over time.
• Dentures may require changes to the patient’s lifestyle. For example, denture wearers often must give up their favorite foods or prepare meals in a different way.
• Dentures need replacing from time to time. This may be due to simple wear and tear or to changes in the patient’s oral profile.

 On the other hand, dentures cost less than implants. They also require less time from the initial consultation to the actual restoration. Many dental plans cover part of the cost of dentures; this is less true when it comes to implants.

Advantages of Dental Implants

The limitations of adhesive dentures inspired dentists to look for a different approach to tooth restoration starting in the 1950s. The first implants were developed during that decade. Dental medicine has continuously refined its materials and methods in the years since. Here are the chief advantages of modern dental implants:

• A true long-term solution. Implants typically last 20 years or longer and require only basic care.
• Remarkable resilience. Implants function just like healthy natural teeth. They allow the wearer to eat his or her favorite foods, participate in sports and exercise, and engage in an active social life, free of worry about the restoration failing.
• A truly natural appearance. Dental implants are indistinguishable from healthy natural teeth. In fact, the only way anyone will be able to tell the difference is with an x-ray machine.
• No need for adhesive creams. At the heart of every dental implant is a small titanium fixture embedded in the patient’s jaw beneath the gum line. This gives implants the same type of structure as natural teeth.
• No need to reline or replace the restoration. This helps to offset the greater cost of implants, since they rarely need replacing.

 Only your dentist in Rocky Hill can prescribe the right approach to tooth restoration in your case. Use the information in this post to discuss your options with him or her during your upcoming appointment. You’ll soon be well on your way to a brighter smile and a better life.

About the Author

Dr. Thaddeus S. Michalski has been practicing dentistry since 2001. He studied at both the University of Connecticut and the University of Florida, completing advanced coursework in cosmetic, restorative, and implant techniques. He continues to hone his skills through continuous training and education. You can reach his office online or by calling (860) 563-4544.