Gone are the days of dealing with missing teeth — dentures and implants combat the problem. They help you chew, improve your speech, and support your facial muscles. When teeth are missing and our gums are exposed, we are at risk for infections, gum disease, and even bone loss, but dentures and implants can help. What are the pros and cons of each, and which option is best for you? Among the oldest treatments for missing teeth are dentures, removable prosthetic teeth fitted to your mouth. Some dentures only replace a few missing teeth, while others may replace an entire upper or lower row. Sometimes, dentures will replace all of your teeth. Pros of Dentures: • Beyond tooth extraction, no surgery is needed. • Dentures are more cost-effective than implants. • Metal plate dentures can easily adjust to changes in the structure of your mouth. • Flexible dentures do not need an adhesive paste and are both odor- and stain-resistant. Cons of Dentures: • They may need to be replaced down the road and can be broken. • They may cause mouth irritation. • Due to the loss of your jawbone, dentures may alter facial shape and structure. • Dentures can become loose. As for dental implants, they are permanently fixed into your mouth with a metal prosthetic root implanted into your jawbone. The very top of the tooth is usually fitted with a crown, which resembles a tooth. Pros of Dental Implants: • Implants are made to last a lifetime and most closely resemble natural teeth. • Dental implants replace the root of the tooth, preventing jaw bone loss. • They are stable in your mouth and can be brushed and flossed, just like natural teeth. Cons of Dental Implants: • Implants can loosen over time, known as implant failure. • Surgery is required when implants are placed in your mouth. • Dental implants are more costly than dentures. DENTURES VS. IMPLANTS HOW DO THEY COMPARE?
Winter Vegetable Shepherd’s Pie
Inspired by BBCGoodFood.com
Ingredients
• 6 1/2 cups potatoes, cut into large chunks • 2 tbsp olive oil • 2 onions, sliced • 1 tbsp flour • 2 large carrots, cut into rounds • 1/2 cauliflower, broken into florets
• 4 garlic cloves, sliced • 1 sprig rosemary • 15-oz can diced tomatoes plus liquid • 1/2 cup water • 1 1/2 cups frozen peas • Milk, to desired consistency
Directions
1. In a pot, boil potatoes until tender. 2. In a pan, heat oil over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened. Stir in flour and cook for 2 minutes. Add carrots, cauliflower, garlic, and rosemary and stir until softened. 3. Pour tomatoes into mix and add water. Cover and let simmer for 10 minutes, then remove lid and cook for 15 minutes until thickened. Stir in peas and simmer. 4. Drain and mash potatoes. Stir in milk to desired consistency. 5. Preheat oven to 375 F. Spoon hot vegetable mix into pie dish, then top with mashed potatoes. Bake until top is golden brown. Take a Break
Before deciding whether dentures or dental implants are right for you, consult with your experienced dental care provider — they are the pros and can guide you in the right direction, depending on your wants and needs!
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