Some patients wonder just how much of a difference it will make if they trade in their dentures for dental implants. The answer is “A lot!” Dental implants are a modern, reliable, and more permanent tooth replacement solution that are lifelike replicas of your natural teeth. When making the transition from dentures to dental implants, it’s important to keep some in mind that they work differently, so you may experience a short period of adjustment time while your mouth becomes used to them. Read on to learn what you can expect when switching out your dentures for implants.
Ditching Denture Annoyances
One of the primary reasons why people initially get dentures instead of dental implants in Moses Lake when they first decide on a tooth replacement solution is because dentures are easier. There’s no surgery or healing period, and the cost is much lower. If you have a lower budget, dentures can help hold you over until you save enough for dental implants, but you’ll quickly realize all the small annoyances that come with over-the-gum restorations.
Many patients complain that they slip or shift in their mouth while they speak and eat, creating embarrassing moments that can make you want to crawl under a rock. Others say that maintaining dentures is a pain. Plus, because dentures don’t stimulate the jawbone, you’ll likely realize that your facial structure is changing after years of wearing them—this is because of jawbone deterioration.
Enjoy the New Benefits of Implants
The great news is that dental implants can do pretty much everything that dentures can’t. Your dentist in Moses Lake often recommends this advanced treatment for patients who are looking for a more functional and aesthetically pleasing smile. They also offer a variety of additional advantages, including:
- They won’t slip around in your mouth because they’re anchored to surgically placed implant posts.
- Food won’t become trapped underneath your implants, so you won’t have to endure sore and raw gums.
- Eat all the foods that you enjoy without difficulty.
- Easily maintain your implants by cleaning them like you would your natural teeth.
- Enjoy a face that appears full instead of sunken-in.
Caring for Your Implant-Retained Dentures
The biggest adjustment that you’ll need to make when you switch to dental implants is how you care for them. Your restorations will be affixed to your mouth, so there’s no need to have to take them out after you eat and clean them and then put them back in. All you need to do is prevent plaque and bacteria accumulation by brushing them twice each day for two minutes and regularly rinse with antimicrobial mouthwash. It’s also important to visit your dentist every six months for a checkup and cleaning so they can make sure that your mouth is healthy your and implants are still functional.
Making the switch from dentures to dental implants may sound daunting, but you’ll be able to enjoy so many benefits when you do. When you take proper care of your implant-retained dentures by following the tips above, you can continue to enjoy a fully functional and beautiful smile for years.
About the Author
Dr. Craig Harder is a trusted, highly skilled dentist with over 20 years of experience under his belt. He is dedicated to providing patients with functional, long-lasting smiles that withstand the tests of daily life. He has completed hundreds of hours of continuing education courses, advancing his knowledge about the latest dental technology and techniques, like dental implants. To schedule a consultation for tooth replacement treatment, visit Moses Lake family Dentistry’s website or call 509-765-4351.