Losing teeth can affect your ability to eat and chew, and it can shift the remaining teeth in your mouth. As a result, tooth loss can increase the risk of decay and infection. Fortunately, dentures or dental implants can replace the lost teeth. Although a dentist will recommend a solution that suits your needs, the following guide can help you compare the treatment options.

Dentures 

Dentures are supposed to resemble your natural teeth, and they're available in either a full set or a partial set. These removable replacements are typically used for people who need to replace several teeth rather than just one or two.

A full set is secured by adhesive and rests directly on top of your gums. Partial sets are secured using clasps that fit around the adjacent teeth or an attachment that fits onto a crown on another tooth. If dentures aren't secured properly, they can irritate the gums, leading to an infection or a slip while talking, eating, or drinking. 

Some people choose dentures to replace all of their teeth when decay has left them in poor condition. The replacements are also ideal for people who have weak or unhealthy jawbones. Compared to implants, dentures are less expensive, but they need to be replaced every few years to account for changes to the gums. 

Dental Implants

Dental implants are permanent tooth replacements. A post is surgically implanted into the jawbone to create an anchor that will hold the implants. The jawbone grows around the titanium post, which can support a single tooth or a dental bridge that contains several teeth. 

Dental implants are often used to replace a single tooth. The finished tooth looks and feels like a natural tooth, and it can last for several decades with consistent oral hygiene. The procedure usually requires several visits to complete. However, implants help preserve facial bone structure, so you don't have to worry about a tooth replacement slipping or falling out.

If you want to discuss your options with an experienced dentist, turn to Aesthetic Dentistry of Charlottesville in Charlottesville, VA. Since 1997, these skilled dentists have served patients throughout central Virginia. They offer preventative, restorative, and cosmetic dental care, including dentures and dental implants. Visit their website to learn more about how they can help, or call (434) 984-3455 to schedule an appointment.