4 Great Reasons to Have Your Teeth Professionally Whitened
Want a smile that makes you feel more confident in every conversation, photo, or first impression? Discover four powerful reasons to skip the strips and choose professional teeth whitening.
Understanding When Dentures Are a Better Option than Implants
Choosing between dentures and dental implants can feel overwhelming. Both options offer solutions for missing teeth, but they serve different needs. While dental implants often get more attention, dentures are still a smart and effective choice for many people.
Knowing when dentures are the better option can save you time, money, and unnecessary discomfort.
At Healthy Smile Dental in Woodridge, Illinois, Hannah Baek, DDS, offers expert guidance to help you choose the best option for your dental health. Here’s when dentures might be right for you.
Dental health plays a big role
Not everyone has the bone structure needed for implants. Dental implants require a strong, healthy jawbone to hold the post in place.
If you’ve had missing teeth for a while, your jawbone may have weakened or shrunk over time. It makes implant placement more difficult and sometimes not possible without bone grafting.
Dentures don’t rely on your jawbone in the same way. They rest on your gums and can be custom-fitted to your mouth, even if some bone loss has occurred. For patients with advanced bone loss or gum disease, dentures are often the more practical and less invasive choice.
Cost is a significant factor
Dental implants can be expensive. Each implant involves a surgical procedure, plus several appointments to complete the process. If you need multiple implants, the costs can add up quickly. Insurance doesn’t always cover implants, or it may only pay a small portion.
Dentures are typically more affordable. If you’re working within a budget or you don’t want to invest in a lengthy and costly procedure, dentures offer a simpler alternative. You can still restore your smile and enjoy improved function without the financial strain.
Speed of treatment matters
Getting dental implants takes time. From the initial consultation to the final placement, the process can take several months. Healing time between stages is necessary to make sure everything integrates properly.
Dentures can be made and fitted much more quickly. In some cases, patients receive immediate dentures the same day we remove their teeth. If you need fast results due to travel, work, or a special event, dentures offer a more convenient timeline.
Age and overall health are key considerations
As we age, our bodies take longer to heal. Certain health conditions, like diabetes or heart disease, can affect how well you recover from surgery. Because implants require a surgical procedure, they may not be best for someone with complex health issues or who heals slowly.
Dentures don’t require surgery and are usually well-tolerated by older adults. If you or a loved one has health concerns, dentures can be a safer and more comfortable solution.
Lifestyle preferences and comfort
Some people prefer the idea of removable teeth. They appreciate the flexibility of removing their dentures for cleaning or sleeping. Others might feel uneasy about having a permanent fixture in their mouth.
Modern dentures have come a long way. They’re lighter, more comfortable, and look more natural than ever before. For many patients, they provide exactly what’s needed without the commitment that comes with implants.
What to ask before choosing dentures or implants
If you’re unsure which option is right for you, start by asking Dr. Baek a few questions, such as:
- How strong is my bone structure?
- What is the total cost of each treatment?
- How long will the process take from start to finish?
- Does my health make implant surgery riskier?
- What kind of maintenance will I need after treatment?
The answers should give you a clear picture of what to expect. Dr. Baek may even recommend a combined approach. For example, implant-supported dentures use fewer implants to secure the denture, offering added stability without the cost or recovery time of multiple implants.
It's about what works for you
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to tooth replacement. The best choice is the one that fits your needs and restores your comfort and confidence. Contact the office by phone or online today for expert advice on your oral health.
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