Do you have missing or damaged teeth? If so, they're probably affecting your ability to eat and speak. They also may influence your willingness to smile and impact your self-confidence. Damaged teeth can also cause long-term health complications. If you're not chewing your food sufficiently, you could face stomach issues in the future. Your remaining teeth could deteriorate as they're forced to pick up more of the slack.
Fortunately, there are steps you can take to address your missing or damaged teeth. You may be able to use a bridge or even dentures. You also might consider implants. At first glance, dentures or a bridge may seem like the better option because they're more affordable and are often covered by insurance. However, you may want to consider dental implants. Below are three reasons why implants may be the better options, even if they are more expensive.
They're realistic
Dental implants differ from bridges and dentures in one major way. Dentures and bridges are fake teeth attached to your gums in a way that may look realistic. Implants are attached into your bones just like your actual teeth. That means they look no different than every other tooth in your mouth. They don't shift or move. There's no chance of them slipping while you're eating or talking. You don't ever have to take your implants out or use adhesive to keep them in. While implants may be more costly, they also give you the benefit of actual teeth that look and function in a realistic way.
They benefit your other teeth
Perhaps one of the biggest benefits of implants is that they help preserve your other teeth, which could actually save you money in the long run. Dentures may not be able to effectively chew food, which means your other teeth will have to be used for that function. Over time, that could cause decay. A dental bridge often requires the shifting and movement of teeth, which can cause them to be unstable. Your implants act as functional teeth. That means they do their part with the chewing of food and take some of the burden off your other teeth. Since they're attached directly into the bone, you don't have to move or shift other teeth.
They last a long time
Implants are generally more durable than either dentures or a dental bridge. You may have to replace those items several times through your life. While a set of dentures or a bridge may be more affordable upfront, they can be much more costly in the long-term due to the cost of replacements. If you care for your implants, they can last decades and possibly even for the remainder of your life.
Ready to address your missing or damaged teeth? Talk to your dentist. They can help you find the right solution for your needs and budget.
