Whether you've only lost one tooth or you've lost several, you may be thinking about dental implants to replace them. Many people find themselves debating between dental implants or dentures, and not really knowing which one is the best solution. In fact, dental implants and dentures are two very different solutions for missing teeth. If you are currently trying to decide between the two, it's helpful to understand why many people prefer implants. Here are some of the reasons why dental implants are gaining in popularity as a missing tooth solution.

Virtually Impossible To Tell

Whether you're worried about someone figuring out that you have a dental implant, concerned that your dental implant will stand out and look out of place, or afraid that it will interfere with your normal lifestyle, you'll be happy to know that dental implants are virtually impossible to distinguish from natural teeth.

The crown that's created to put over the implant post will be color-matched to your existing teeth so that it blends in flawlessly with the rest of your smile. This prevents anyone from being able to tell at a glance that you have a dental implant. 

Additionally, the post and crown will feel and behave like a natural tooth in your mouth, allowing you to go about your day and not be worried about it shifting as you might be with a dental bridge.

Long-Lasting Solution

Unlike dentures or a dental bridge that will have to be replaced every few years, a dental implant is a long-lasting solution for your missing tooth or teeth. In fact, while the crown might need to be replaced every twenty years or so, the implant post itself will last you for the rest of your life, provided that there are no major changes to your bone health and condition.

That means that the dental implant procedure is usually a one-and-done type of treatment. Barring any complications or other rare issues, you won't have to have the implant itself placed more than once.

Better For Your Jaw Bone

When it comes to solutions for your missing teeth, dental implants are actually a better solution for your jaw bone than dentures. When you lose a tooth, the affected section of your jaw bone no longer has that tooth there to stimulate the bone and keep it strong and healthy. As a result, bone loss can occur over time. This alters your jaw's alignment and your bite, potentially leading to discomfort and long-term health complications.

If you decide to opt for a dental implant, though, the implant post will be placed directly into your jaw bone, where osseointegration will lead to that post fusing with the bone. This provides that necessary stimulation to the jaw bone when you eat and talk, protecting your jaw bone from deterioration.

Preserves Dietary Freedom

One of the biggest challenges for people with dental problems, especially missing teeth, is being able to eat their favorite foods. Especially if you enjoy some of the foods that are more difficult to eat, such as raw vegetables and jerky, you'll find that it's harder to eat the things you love when you're missing a tooth. Not to mention that it doesn't get much easier if you have a dental bridge or denture that will shift, slide, and move around in your mouth when you eat more challenging foods.

That's another reason why people like dental implants. Since implants look, feel, and behave like natural teeth, you'll be able to go back to eating all of your favorite foods once your implant has healed and the crown is in place.

These are some of the many reasons why people opt for dental implants over dentures when dealing with a missing tooth. Talk with your dentist today to see if dental implants might be the best solution for you, too.