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Dentures vs. Implants: Which is Right for Me?

Your Restorative Dentistry Options for Missing Teeth

Whether from an accident or the result of a dental condition, missing teeth can leave patients feeling insecure about their smiles. When it comes to choosing a restorative option to repair the missing teeth, there are a few options to choose from. Most commonly, our dentists at Sterling Dental Center use dentures and implants to help patients regain their confidence and restore their smiles.

If you’re interested in restoring your smile, here’s how to choose between these two popular options.

Signs You Need Restorative Dentistry

Beyond missing teeth, there are some common signs that can indicate a need to speak to their dentist about either dentures or dental implants, including:

  • Red, swollen, tender, or bleeding gums
  • Loose, shifting, or missing teeth
  • Toothaches
  • Difficulty eating hard or chewy foods
  • Indigestion
  • Being self-conscious about smiling

Are Dentures Right for Me?

Dentures are a removable option that allows the patient to take out either their partial or full set of teeth and are best suited for those who are missing multiple teeth rather than just one.

Dentures are made from precise molds that are uniquely designed for each patient. Upon coming in for your consultation, one of our Shreveport dentists will take extremely accurate molds of your smile. These molds are then turned into dentures, which comfortably fit over the gums or between the teeth, This allows a patient who has experienced tooth loss to enjoy a restored smile and improved oral function.

Benefits of Dentures

As dentures are removable, this restorative option offers more freedom than dental implants — and they’re less expensive as well. Additionally, patients with a weaker jaw may be a better fit for dentures over dental implants.

The Downside to Dentures

It’s vital that, when choosing to get dentures, you choose a dentist who takes proper molds and fits your dentures accordingly. If dentures are misaligned with your smile, you could experience dental issues such as infection, tooth decay, or issues while eating or drinking.


Speak to your dentist during your consultation, so they can give you proper instructions on how to care for your dentures — and the rest of your smile!

Are Dental Plants Right for Me?

In contrast, dental implants are permanent teeth replacements that have become a popular option for those who don’t want the hassle of removing their dentures. This option requires an operation to secure the implants in your mouth permanently.

What to Expect During Surgery

The procedure for one dental implant generally takes anywhere from 30 to 60 minutes, and the treatment for multiple implants is about 2 to 3 hours. Before the surgery, you may receive a local anesthetic and/or antibiotics to maximize comfort.

Then, our dentist will make a small incision to the gum tissue to reveal the bone and create a space to gently insert the implant. Healing times vary between patients, and you should consult with your dentist to ensure your smile heals properly post-operatively.

Benefits of Dental Implants

By adding a permanent tooth replacement to your smile, dental implants help to prevent bone loss and overall oral health. They also look more natural in comparison to dentures, which helps patients feel more confident when eating, talking and smiling.

Additionally, this restorative option helps to:

  • Improve speech and overall comfort
  • Fill gaps left by missing teeth
  • Improve your chewing experience

Restorative Dentistry in Shreveport

At Sterling Dental Center, we understand that each patient is different, which is why we’re happy to walk you through your restorative dentistry options. To book a consultation with our dentists to discuss dentures, dental implants, and other restorative options, reach out online or give us a call at (318) 374-1411.

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