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Tooth loss can affect more than just your smile. Tooth loss can change the way you speak, eat, and feel about yourself. Whether due to age, injury, or advanced dental decay, replacing missing teeth is essential for maintaining oral health and quality of life. At Smile League Dental in Joliet, we help patients evaluate their options with both clinical precision and personal attention. The two most common treatments for replacing missing teeth are dental implants and dentures, and each comes with benefits and considerations that depend on your health, goals, and budget. As a dentist with years of experience helping patients make these decisions, I understand how important it is to be fully informed. Dental implants are surgically placed titanium posts. These posts fuse with the jawbone to support crowns or bridges. Dentures, on the other hand, are removable prosthetics that rest on the gums. While both restore appearance and function, the long-term impact of each treatment varies significantly.
Dental implants offer a permanent, fixed solution that closely mimics the function of natural teeth. They preserve bone density, help maintain facial structure, and don’t shift when you talk or eat. Implants also have a high success rate, over 95% according to data from the National Institutes of Health, and can last decades with proper care. However, they require sufficient bone structure, a surgical procedure, and a longer healing period. Dentures can be created more quickly and are typically more affordable upfront. They can be a good solution for patients with extensive tooth loss or bone loss who are not candidates for implants. That said, dentures may require periodic adjustments, adhesives, and replacement every few years due to changes in jaw shape over time. Dr. Morolayo Oluyemi (DMD, MPH, BDS) often advises patients to consider their medical history, oral anatomy, and long-term goals before choosing either option. Both treatments can significantly improve oral function, but their suitability is highly individual.
Denture Frequently Asked Questions
What Is The Main Difference Between Dental Implants And Dentures?
Dental implants are fixed into the jawbone and provide a stable, permanent tooth replacement. Dentures are removable and sit on top of the gums. While both replace missing teeth, implants offer a more natural feel and help preserve bone, whereas dentures may shift or require adhesives.
Are Dental Implants Painful To Get?
Implant placement is a surgical procedure, but it’s typically performed under local anesthesia and is well-tolerated by most patients. Post-operative discomfort is usually mild and manageable with over-the-counter medication. Dr. Morolayo Oluyemi (DMD, MPH, BDS) monitors each patient closely to ensure healing progresses as expected.
Can Dentures Look Natural?
Yes, modern dentures are made with advanced materials that closely resemble natural teeth and gums. A well-fitted denture can restore your smile’s appearance, but it may take some time to adjust to speaking and eating with it.
Do I Need To Replace Dental Implants Over Time?
With proper care, dental implants can last 20 years or longer. The crowns or bridges attached to them may need maintenance or replacement due to normal wear, but the implants themselves are designed to be a long-term solution.
How Do I Know Which Option Is Right For Me?
The best option depends on your oral health, bone density, number of missing teeth, and personal preferences. A comprehensive dental exam and diagnostic imaging are necessary to determine the most appropriate treatment. Dr. Morolayo Oluyemi (DMD MPH BDS) provides tailored evaluations to help patients make informed, confident decisions.
Visit Smile League Dental To Discuss Your Tooth Replacement Options
At Smile League Dental, located at 3587 Hennepin Dr, Joliet, IL 60431, we take pride in helping patients choose solutions that restore confidence, function, and oral health. If you’re considering dental implants or dentures, schedule a consultation to explore what’s right for you. Contact our Joliet denture dentist at Smile League Dental by calling 815-782-6243 to schedule your consultation or visit our office at 3587 Hennepin Dr, Joliet, IL 60431.
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