Top 5 Reasons Patients Prefer Dental Implants Over Dentures

Dental implants have revolutionized the way we are replacing missing teeth in our New York City office. Implant teeth consist of three parts: a titanium post, a connector, and a crown. The post is the actual implant, and it is screwed into the jawbone, below the gum line, and the crown is the visible part of the replacement tooth. Multiple crowns and full arches can be supported by two, four, or more implants.

Read on for the top 5 reasons dental implants are the preferred denture alternative by both our NYC dentists and our patients.

Top 5 Reasons Patients Choose Dental Implants in New York

#1 No Shifting or Loose-Fitting Dentures

Did you know that titanium, the metal screw used in dental implants, is biocompatible with living bone and has the unique ability to fuse with your jaw? Since dental implants have a similar solid attachment to the jawbone as the roots of natural teeth, your new implant teeth will never slip or shift like dentures do but remain secure and immovable.

#2 Longevity of Dental Implants

No other teeth replacement method provides the stability that results once an implant fuses with bone. This advantage makes dental implants the most valuable option long-term. Stable and permanent, unlike bridges and dentures, dental implants should not need to be replaced or remade over time. In fact, with proper care, they should last a lifetime.

#3 No Dietary Restrictions

Once we’ve confirmed that your new implant has fully fused with your jawbone, we’ll give you the green light to eat anything you like. Osseointegration stabilizes the implant, making it as strong and stable as your natural teeth. Fully secure, implants stay put and don’t shift like bridges and dentures tend to do, so you’re free to eat all your favorites, including chewy and hard foods.

#4 Permanent Teeth Replacement

The biggest difference between traditional teeth replacements, like dentures and bridges, and dental implants is that the latter has roots that support the artificial teeth, not just the visible structures. The root is the titanium screw-like component of an implant, and its biocompatibility with bone allows for the implant to be locked in place permanently. Once the implant is stabilized, the process is complete, and your tooth replacement is permanent. Simply put, full arch dental implants are permanent dentures.

#5 Dental Implants Act Like Natural Teeth

Perhaps most importantly, just as natural teeth have roots that serve as anchors, the fact that the screws of dental implants completely fuse with the bone allows implants to feel and function like your natural teeth. The resemblance is so similar that many of our patients can’t remember which of their teeth are dental implants. Indeed, dental implants are a game changer, allowing you to eat, speak, and smile and laugh with complete confidence.

BONUS SECTION: Top 6 Patient Questions and Concerns

Choosing the ideal teeth replacement is a big decision, and we want you to be fully comfortable and confident with what you choose. Check out these answers to our most frequently asked questions.

#1 During the dental implant process, how long will I be without teeth?

We can fit you with a temporary crown once we’ve placed your dental implant if you don’t want to be without teeth during the osseointegration period. Multiple options of temporary solutions while you are healing are available. We explain the possibilities in detail during your consultation prior to your treatment.

#2 How is it possible to get implants in one day?

The implant is the titanium screw that we place in your jawbone. We are able to extract a tooth, place the implant, and then put a temporary crown on the implant in one day very often. But the process isn’t truly complete until the implant has integrated into the jawbone and we place your final restoration several months later.

#3 How long does it take to get used to dental implants?

Once the osseointegration process has been completed and your implants have been fully secured and stabilized, which can take up to 6 months, we place the final crown, and your everyday activities, such as eating, speaking, and even applying lipstick, will feel completely normal and natural. Our final crowns are perfectly crafted to fit your jaw and its surrounding structures, so they should feel comfortable right away.

#4 How does the cost of dentures compare to implants?

Up front, dental implants appear to be much more costly than dentures. However, dental implants last longer than any other teeth replacement option, and they are often more successful than other dental treatments as well.

#5 I already have dentures. Is it worth it to invest in dental implants?

Absolutely. About 20% of our denture patients transition from dentures to full arch dental implants, and they have been thrilled with the results.

#6 I’m happy with my dentures. Can I just get my lower denture tightened?

No. Unfortunately, lower dentures shift. That’s just how dentures tend to function. A full lower denture has no suction. We have no palate on bottom, just a small bony ridge and you must learn to use your musculature to hold a well fitted lower denture in place. That said, you may need to have your lower denture professionally relined since the mouth is a dynamic structure and changes shape over time.