When it comes to replacing missing teeth, dental implants and dentures are two of the most popular options.
However, while dentures have been a staple in restorative dentistry for years, dental implant procedures are becoming increasingly favored due to their many advantages. In 2024, Grandview Research reported that about three million people had dental implants—but that number is growing by another half-million every year.
So, why are more people choosing dental implants over dentures for artificial teeth? Let’s talk about it!
In this blog post, we’ll explore why dental implant surgery may be the best choice for your missing teeth and how Hickory Dental can help you achieve a beautiful, functional smile.
1. Look & Feel Like Natural Teeth
One of the most significant benefits of implants is how natural they look and feel. Unlike dentures, which may slip or feel unnatural in your mouth, dental implants are securely anchored into your jawbone. This provides a solid foundation that allows the dental implants to mimic the feel of your natural teeth and keep adjacent teeth stable.
2. Improved Comfort and Stability
Dentures can be uncomfortable, especially when they don’t fit properly or slip while eating or speaking. Most dental implants, on the other hand, provide a permanent solution with no slipping or shifting. The implant fuses with the jawbone over time, creating a durable foundation for the artificial tooth. This stability allows you to speak, eat, and smile with confidence.
3. Preserves Bone Health
When you lose a tooth, the underlying jawbone can start to deteriorate over time. Dentures do not address this issue, but dental implants may be able to.
The titanium post of the dental implant acts as a replacement root, stimulating the bone and helping to maintain its density. This process, known as osseointegration, prevents bone loss and supports the overall health of your mouth and natural teeth.
If you want to preserve your jawbone’s health and appearance, dental implant surgery is typically the way to go. However, the American Academy of Implant Dentistry does note that patients need strong enough bones to safely place dental implants in the first place.
4. Long-Lasting Solution for Missing Teeth
Dental implants are designed to last for many years and sometimes even a lifetime with proper care. Unlike dentures, which may need to be replaced or relined over time (likely every five to seven years), implants require little maintenance beyond regular brushing and flossing. This long-term durability makes them a cost-effective solution in the long run.
Consider this: Depending on dental insurance coverage, the cost for a single implant (including abutment and crown) ranges from $3,000 to $7,000. Dentures are cheaper, usually costing around $1,800, but over the course of replacement, you can easily spend thousands more.
In fact, if you only replace your dentures twice, you may still spend more than you would have on one high-quality dental implant (depending on the necessary dental surgeries and other circumstances).
5. Easier to Care For
Caring for dental implants is as simple as caring for your natural teeth at home. You can brush and floss the prosthetic teeth just like you would your own teeth, without the need for special cleaning solutions or adhesives.
On the other hand, dentures require constant cleaning and maintenance, and they must be removed at night for proper care. Therefore, dental implants offer a more convenient and straightforward solution to restoring your smile.
6. Better Oral Health
Dental implant surgery doesn’t just restore the appearance of your smile—it also supports better overall oral health and natural teeth.
Because implants are embedded in the jawbone, they don’t rely on surrounding teeth for support, unlike bridges that require the filing down of adjacent teeth. This preserves the integrity of your natural teeth and reduces the risk of future dental issues.
As the Mayo Clinic says, “The major benefit of implants is solid support for the new teeth.” If added by an experienced oral surgeon, a dental implant can give you a stable foundation for many years to come.
7. Improved Confidence
A full set of teeth that looks natural and functions properly can boost your confidence significantly. A recent 2024 study found that adolescents who rated their smile similarly to dentists had higher self-esteem, and orthodontic treatment tended to positively influence self-esteem.
Even though you likely aren’t an adolescent, dental implant placement can offer a permanent solution that allows you to speak, laugh, and eat without worry. You won’t have to worry about dentures slipping out or feeling uncomfortable about your missing teeth.
Embrace your newfound confidence!
Explore the Benefits of Dental Implants With Hickory Dental
While dentures may offer a temporary solution to missing teeth, dental implant surgery can provide a more reliable, comfortable, and long-lasting option. From improved comfort to better oral health and the preservation of bone structure, the benefits of dental implants can far outweigh those of traditional dentures.
At Hickory Dental, we’re here to help guide you through the process of selecting the best surgical procedure for your needs in North Carolina. Whether you’re looking for a single missing tooth replacement or a full set of dental implants, our team of professionals will restore your smile safely and beautifully.
If you’re considering dental implant surgery, contact our team to schedule a consultation today. We’re happy to discuss the cost of dental implant service and how we can make these artificial teeth a realistic choice for your situation.