When you have missing teeth, you need to resolve the problem as soon as possible. Otherwise, more oral complications will develop. Teeth serve more than just appearance. They help to preserve the bone in the jaw, creating pressure that keeps bone healthy. They also serve as placeholders, keeping abutting teeth from shifting. Thankfully, when it comes to missing teeth, you have more than one option. You can get dental implants or dentures in Fort Collins, CO, depending upon your individual circumstances. Here’s what to know about each option.

Dental Implants

Dental implants are the latest technological solution for missing teeth. This solution involves surgically implanting a titanium piece into the jaw. A connecting piece, called an abutment, is then attached to the implant, and the faux tooth or teeth are connected to the abutment.

Benefits of Dental Implants

• Dental implants are permanent and can last a lifetime.
• They look extremely realistic, even close-up.
• They don’t require any special cleaning or maintenance, other than regular oral hygiene.
• They help preserve the jawbone and may help prevent more teeth from being lost.

Drawbacks of Dental Implants

• They require a certain amount of strong bone to hold the implant.
• They require oral surgery.
• The dental implant procedure takes longer than dentures, often several months, and several office visits.

Dentures

Dentures are a tried and true solution for missing teeth. Millions of people worldwide are happy wearing dentures, and their comfort and appearance has only improved over the years.

Benefits of Dentures

• They are more comfortable and better-looking than in past years.
• Dentures are easy to slip in and out as needed.
• They are easier and faster to get than dental implants.
• Dentures do not require any surgery.

Drawbacks of Dentures

• They take some getting used to and may feel foreign for a week or more.
• Dentures don’t look quite as realistic as dental implants.
• They require special care and maintenance, including special cleaning solutions.
• Dentures often need to be replaced, to accommodate changes in the gums and jawbone over time.

Both dental implants and dentures can improve your quality of life by restoring your smile and functionality, so choose the option with your dentist in Fort Collins, CO that best aligns with your personal circumstances and preferences.