You have many options when it comes to restoring your smile. Let the best dentist in Salem, MA, teach you about dental implants vs. dentures in this guide.

If you are missing teeth then you may be dealing with feelings of self-consciousness and embarrassment. However, it is good to be aware of just how common the challenge you are going through really is.

It may surprise you to find out that approximately 178 million Americans have at least one tooth missing, over half of the population!

But it's common nature shouldn't mask the dangers you may encounter if you decide to not take action and decide between dental implants vs dentures. Gaps in our teeth can affect everything from our eating habits, the way we talk, and even how we look.

The good news is that the solution, dental implants, and dentures are simple procedures of general dentistry in Salem MA. But which is right for you?

Find the answer and more in our rundown of dental implants vs dentures.

How Do Dental Implants Work?

The biggest contrast in comparing dental implants vs dentures is that dental implants can be considered as permanent replacements of your teeth.

There are 5 steps in the process.

The first step for dental implants in Salem MA is a dental examination. From this, they will be able to learn about the most important aspect of dental implants. Can your jawbone handle the force of your bite?

X-rays and 3D images will tell the dentist enough about the condition of your teeth to answer this question. Then, they will check to ensure that you are free from gum disease.

Next is the preparation stage. Your dentist will extract the broken or damaged tooth and then allow the gum to recover. Then we move on to dental implant placement. The key to this stage is your dental implant post, which will become your new root.

When sedated, your dentist will make an incision in your gum exposing your jawbone. Then they drill a hole for your post. Understandably, there may be some discomfort after this procedure; however, this shouldn't prevent you from carrying out your day-to-day activities for more than a day.

This will kick off osseointegration. Osseointegration is when new bone grows, strengthening the area around the post.

The fourth and fifth stages are the abutment and the choosing of your eventual tooth or crown. The abutment is a vital link in the chain, linking the root to the part of your tooth that everyone will see. Healing time is also needed after your dentist in Salem MA completes this stage.

Lastly, your crown is fitted. You will need to work along with your dentist to make sure that the color fits perfectly with your current teeth as well as making sure that they are a perfect fit.

What Do I Need to Know About Dentures?

While we may all be familiar with the finished look of dentures, how do they work in contrast to dental implants?

Dentures are essentially removable artificial teeth that are set on an acrylic base. This base is placed over the gums and, on occasion will have some metal framework to add stability to the fixture.

As everyone is different, the types of dentures needed for each person vary. Those who need to replace only a few teeth can opt for partial dentures. However, if more extensive work is needed then your dentist may fit you with complete dentures.

One thing that anyone who will need dentures should be aware of is that the procedure is fast and seamless.

So how will your visit to the dentist go the day you go to get your dentures?

The first step is an in-depth study of your teeth focusing particularly on alignment. Next, an impression of your teeth is made, and once your dentist is sure that they will be a perfect fit, your dentures will be produced.

Dental Implants vs. Dentures: What Is Right for Me?

So which one is right for you?

As you can probably guess, there is no one size fits all answer when deciding between dental implants vs dentures.

While they may seem vastly different, there are some surprising similarities. You may be surprised to know that it is possible to have removable implants. For removable implants, the crown is able to snap on and off from the abutment, whereas fixed ones are permanent.

That being said, there are some clear differences. One is found in the price point. A full set of dentures can cost at times the price of a single implant. The reason?

Due to their permanent nature, there is a clear advantage when it comes to things like the jaw structure of your face. Also, you never have to worry about any embarrassing moments in public when they could fall out, like when laughing or eating.

On the other hand, dentures allow you to resolve your discomfort not only quickly but also without the need for surgery. Implants may take up to a year to complete on the whole, and their invasive nature is enough for many to opt for dentures if they have a choice.

Dentures may also be the only option for some. For example, there may be cases when patients will not have enough bone to support the posts that are drilled into the jaw.

The key to coming to the right conclusion for you is to speak to your dentist in Salem MA. If you work along with them you will be able to enjoy the best option that will leave you with a perfect set of pearly whites.

The Easiest Choice of Them All

We hope that our breakdown of dental implants vs dentures answers any questions you may have about the 2 procedures. Making a choice between the two can seem complicated, but one thing is clear if you live in Salem MA. The best place to get them done is with us, Smiles of Salem!

If you are looking for dentists with years of experience in both procedures and various payment options, then you can contact a dentist in 01970 at (781) 631-3799 or request an appointment online to speak to your dentist in Salem MA.

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