Close to 180 million adults in the U.S. have at least one missing tooth, caused by accidents, gum disease, tooth decay or dental fractures. Dental implants and dentures are the two most common fixes for missing teeth. When deciding which option is right for you, you’ll want to weigh the pros and cons of each.

How Dentures Work

Dentures are false teeth that are usually secured with adhesive. Dentures often need to be removed before eating to prevent slippage, and patients can get either full or partial dentures, depending on how many teeth need to be replaced. Since dentures aren’t secured, bone loss and deterioration can occur, which can impact the overall look of your face. Additionally, placing dentures may require shaving or removing healthy teeth, and they can increase your chance of periodontal disease. If your gums and jaw are unhealthy or weak, dentures may be the best option for you, and while they have their disadvantages, they have increased in quality over the past few years.

How Dental Implants Work

Dental implants are surgically implanted into the jawbone. These titanium posts are fixed rather permanently into the jawbone, and the replacement teeth can last at least 20 years when paired with proper oral care. The replacement teeth, or crowns, are screwed or cemented into the post and function just like regular teeth. With dental implants, your mouth is restored to its usual look, so it won’t be obvious that you have false teeth. They even deter additional bone loss.

Get a New Smile

If you have one or more teeth missing, cosmetic dentistry can restore your smile and help you regain full function. Our periodontists Drs. Szymanowski, are available to go over your treatment options and help you make the best choice possible. We use state of the art technology with our dental implants or dentures in Sacramento, CA. Call us today!