You’re facing a decision you probably didn’t expect to be making, which is between dentures and implants. It’s not just about looks. You want to be able to chew your food without thinking about it. You want to talk without feeling self-conscious. You’re probably tired of being so aware of your teeth, or the fact that some are missing.
Some patients are missing just one tooth when they visit Charvet Dental Center in Metairie. Others are trying to fix damage that’s built up over the years. The details may vary, but the main question is usually the same. Dr. Hunter and Dr. Hunter Jr. can help you figure out which option may be ideal for you.
The Big Picture On Dentures Vs Implants
What most people don’t realize is that both options work. There’s no wrong answer across the board. It’s about finding the right one for you.
Dental Implants Are A Longer-Term Solution
They’re surgically placed in your jawbone and act like real tooth roots. Once your dental implant heals, a crown or bridge is attached, and it functions almost exactly like a natural tooth.
Dentures Are Removable
You can take dentures out at night. Some are full sets, some are partials. They rest on top of your gums instead of anchoring into the bone. And they come with their own set of pros and cons.
Knowing the basic differences is a good start. However, the better question is, how do they stack up for you?
A Few Things To Think About Before Deciding
Let’s break this down so it makes sense in real life:
- Stability: Implants don’t move. Once they’re in, they stay put. Dentures can shift while talking or eating, especially if they don’t fit just right.
- Upfront cost: Dentures usually cost less at first. Implants cost more, but they last longer and typically don’t need replacing for decades.
- Timeline: Dentures are quicker to get. Implants take longer to heal before the final crown or bridge goes on.
- Bone health: Implants stimulate the jawbone and help keep it strong. Dentures don’t do that, so bone loss can still happen underneath over time.
- Day-to-day life: Implants feel like real teeth. Dentures might take some getting used to, and they require daily cleaning outside your mouth.
What Your Mouth And Health Say About It
Some people walk in expecting implants but don’t have enough bone left to support them. Others assume they’re “too old” for implants and find out they’re great candidates.
Dr. Hunter and Dr. Hunter Jr. see both sides every week at Charvet Dental Center. If you’ve been missing teeth for a while, your bone may have shrunk a bit. That’s normal, but it might mean you need a bone graft before implants can work. If you want to skip the surgery or the healing time feels like too much, dentures might make more sense.
If you have any medical conditions that slow healing, or if you’re on certain medications, that can affect your decision, too. This is where it helps to talk it through with someone who knows what to look for, not just Google.
Real Talk About Living With Them
There’s how each option works on paper, and then there’s how it feels to live day to day. Here’s what to expect once you’ve made your choice between dentures vs implants.
If You’re Thinking About Dentures
There’s usually a short learning curve. Talking might feel different at first. Eating can take some practice. Most people adjust faster than they expect. Daily cleaning is part of the deal, and you’ll want to keep an eye on the fit over time. As your mouth changes, your dentures might need to be relined or replaced.
They’re lightweight and easier to manage financially, especially upfront. Just know they take some consistency to keep clean and comfortable.
If You’re Leaning Toward Implants
Once everything heals, they start to feel like your own teeth. You won’t need to take them out or clean them separately. You shouldn’t notice any slipping or clicking anymore.
They do take longer to finish, though. The healing process can stretch out over a few months, and you’ll need to be ready for the surgical side of things. Once it’s done, they’re usually the lower-maintenance option in the long run.
What Most People Want To Know
Cost is usually the first thing that comes up, and that makes sense. Implants cost more upfront, but they’re built to last. Dentures are more affordable in the beginning, but they might need to be replaced every few years. If they crack or stop fitting well, those fixes can add up over time.
It’s also smart to check with your insurance ahead of time. Some plans cover part of the cost, but it depends on your provider and the type of treatment you choose.
Another big question regarding dentures vs implants is how they look. The short answer is that both can look great when done right. What matters is the quality of the fit. That’s something Dr. Hunter and Dr. Hunter Jr. focus on closely at Charvet Dental Center.
Talk It Through With Our Team
If you’re weighing dentures vs implants, a quick conversation can give you real clarity.
Dr. Hunter and Dr. Hunter Jr. will look at what’s going on in your mouth, go over what’s possible, and help you understand the options without trying to push you into anything. You can reach out to Charvet Dental Center in Metairie when you’re ready to take the next step.