If you’re missing teeth and exploring your restoration options, you likely have questions about dental implants and dentures. Both options can restore your smile, but they work differently and can even be combined for long-lasting results. At New Smile Now, we’re here to help you understand your choices and make the best decision for your smile. So, let’s look at the top five questions we get about dental implants and dentures.
1. Can You Have Both Dental Implants and Dentures?
Yes! Dental implants and dentures can be used together to create a more stable, comfortable restoration. Traditional dentures rest on the gums and rely on adhesives. This can sometimes cause slipping, discomfort, and even embarrassment. Implant-supported dentures, however, are anchored to dental implants that are surgically placed in your jawbone. These implants act as artificial tooth roots, providing a secure foundation for dentures that won’t shift during meals or conversations.
2. Is It Easier to Eat With Dental Implants Than With Dentures?
Dental implants offer superior stability compared to traditional dentures. With dentures, chewing harder foods can be a challenge due to their tendency to slip or press uncomfortably against the gums. Implant-supported dentures, on the other hand, stay securely in place, allowing you to enjoy a wider variety of foods.
Since implants are fused directly with the jawbone, they mimic the natural function of teeth more effectively than traditional dentures. Patients often report feeling more confident and comfortable when eating with implant-supported dentures.
3. When Is It Too Late to Get Dental Implants?
It’s rarely “too late” to get dental implants, but there are certain factors that can affect eligibility. Dental implants require a healthy jawbone to provide adequate support. If you’ve experienced bone loss due to missing teeth or gum disease, you might need a bone graft to build up the jawbone before implants can be placed.
Age is not typically a limiting factor — we have had many patients in their 70s and 80s successfully receive implants. Your dentist will need to assess your oral health, medical history, and bone structure to determine if implants are right for you.
4. Are Dentures With Implants Worth It?
For many patients, the answer is a resounding yes. Implant-supported dentures are more secure, comfortable, and long-lasting than traditional dentures. They eliminate the need for messy adhesives, reduce irritation, and allow for better chewing and speaking.
While the upfront cost of implant-supported dentures is higher, they are often more cost-effective in the long run due to their durability and the reduced need for adjustments and replacements. Many patients find the investment worthwhile for the improved quality of life they experience.
5. Do Snap-In Dentures Feel Like Real Teeth?
Snap-in dentures, a type of removable implant-supported denture, come closer to mimicking natural teeth than traditional options. Because they attach securely to implants, they don’t shift or wobble like standard dentures. Patients often describe the sensation as more natural and comfortable, especially when eating or speaking. While they may not feel exactly like natural teeth, snap-in dentures are a significant improvement in both stability and functionality.
Get Dental Implants With New Smile Now
If you’re ready to talk to a specialist about dental implants and dentures, New Smile Now is the solution for you. We’ll work with you to create a treatment plan that matches your needs. Reach out to us today to learn more or schedule an appointment!
