Whether you have missing teeth or your existing teeth are damaged and need to be replaced, your major options are most likely dentures or dental implants. While dentures can be an affordable temporary solution in some cases, in the long-run, dental implants offer several important advantages. Here are a few of the biggest reasons to choose dental implants instead of dentures:

Dental Implants Look and Feel Like Real Teeth

Perhaps the biggest advantage of dental implants is that they look and feel like your natural teeth, only healthier. You can brush your teeth like normal, your smile looks natural, and you don't feel any discomfort or awkwardness from the dental implants like you do with dentures. Since dental implants function exactly like natural teeth, no one will know you have them. This is in sharp contrast to dentures, which must be removed when you sleep and to clean them each day, which can lead to feelings of self-consciousness. 

Dental Implants Last a Long Time

You can expect your new dental implants to last for many years, often for your entire lifetime as long as they are placed correctly and you take good care of them. Dental implants are designed to be permanent teeth replacements, and while the upfront cost is higher than the cost of dentures, you may save money in the long run. Since you won't need to replace your dental implants for a long time, if ever, you only need to worry about the upfront cost. Dentures, on the other hand, need to be replaced fairly often and also require special cleaning equipment and supplies.

Dental Implants Preserve Your Facial Structure

Lost teeth and dentures can cause your face to age more rapidly because your teeth are no longer providing structure for your facial features and tissue. This can lead to sagging and wrinkles, even in younger people. Dental implants, on the other hand, provide the same stable structure as natural teeth, helping to prevent premature aging. Considering that dental implants also improve your smile, you will most likely be much happier with your overall appearance if you choose dental implants instead of choosing dentures.

When you talk to your dentist about your options, they will be able to refer you to a recommended oral surgeon who specializes in dental implants. This will be the first step to allowing you to experience these benefits and advantages for yourself.