Dental Implants vs Real Teeth - Which Is Better?

Some people wonder whether dental implants are better than real teeth because of their strength and decay resistance. Real teeth consist of organic enamel and dentin which are vulnerable to cavities. Dental implants are prosthetic tooth replacements that integrate with the jawbone and resemble the look and feel of real teeth while being resistant to decay.

So, are dental implants better than real teeth? Understanding how dental implants compare with real teeth across various aspects will help you make an informed decision about which is better for your situation.

Strength and Durability

Dental implants are highly durable and resistant to wear—thanks to their titanium construction. Unlike your own teeth, implants are not prone to issues like cavities or broken teeth caused by injury or advanced decay. They can withstand significant chewing force without cracking or degrading, making them an excellent long-term solution for replacing missing teeth.

Natural teeth, while inherently strong, are more susceptible to damage over time. Enamel, the hardest substance in the body, can erode due to acidic foods, poor oral hygiene, gastrointestinal problems, or injury. Cavities, fractures, and periodontal disease (gum disease) can compromise the strength of your teeth, leading to necessary restorative treatments.

Functionality Considerations

Natural teeth are optimized for efficient chewing and biting, with their organic structure providing flexibility and comfort. Their connection to the periodontal ligaments ensures even force distribution when chewing and prevents excessive wear on individual teeth.

Dental implants perform exceptionally well in daily use and restore nearly the full functionality of natural teeth. Once osseointegration of the dental implant has occurred, it provides the stability and strength required to bite and chew most foods without restrictions. While implants cannot replicate the exact flexibility of natural teeth, most patients find them indistinguishable in terms of function.

Aesthetic Appeal

Dental implants are crafted to resemble the look and feel of real teeth. The custom crowns are crafted to match the color, shape, and size of your existing teeth to create a seamless look. Implants also help to maintain facial structure by preventing the jawbone loss that occurs after losing an original tooth.

A natural tooth offers unparalleled authenticity, with its unique translucence and texture—although discoloration, chips, or other cosmetic issues can affect its appearance. Cosmetic dentistry can address these concerns, allowing you to retain the unmatched, natural aesthetics of healthy teeth.

Longevity and Maintenance

Natural teeth have the potential to last a lifetime with good oral hygiene and professional care. However, their longevity can be compromised by factors like tooth decay, gum disease, and general wear. Visiting your dentist regularly to get checkups, cleanings, and restorative dentistry treatments (like a filling or dental crown), may be necessary to preserve their function.

Dental implants are intended to offer a long-lasting replacement option for individuals with missing teeth. With proper care, dental implants can last for many years—often a lifetime. The porcelain crown may require replacement due to normal wear but the titanium posts remain durable.

Oral Health Considerations

Poor oral hygiene is bad for your health and makes your natural teeth vulnerable to decay and gum disease. Cavities, gingivitis, and periodontal disease can weaken the teeth and surrounding structures, potentially leading to tooth loss. Good nutrition and regular brushing, flossing, and dental visits are essential for preventing these issues.

Dental implants excel in this area compared to real teeth because they don't decay. However, they do require diligent care to prevent complications like peri-implantitis. Gum health is critical, as the implant relies on the surrounding tissue and bone for stability. A nutritious diet and good oral hygiene, regular checkups, and professional cleanings help maintain the health of the implant site to prevent infection, bone loss, and potential dental implant failure.

Preventing Bone Loss

One of the key roles of natural teeth is stimulating the jawbone through chewing. This stimulation maintains bone density and prevents resorption of the bone. When you have a missing tooth, the lack of stimulation can lead to bone loss that then affects your adjacent teeth and facial structure.

Dental implants, like natural teeth, address this issue by acting as an artificial tooth root. The titanium post stimulates the jawbone during chewing and preserves bone density and structure. This makes implants a valuable solution to prevent the long-term effects of tooth loss.

Comfort and Sensitivity

Natural teeth are equipped with nerves that allow you to feel sensations like temperature and pressure when eating or drinking. This sensory feedback plays a crucial role in your everyday comfort and ability to enjoy food temperatures and textures. However, your own teeth can become sensitive—resulting in pain and affecting your overall comfort.

Dental implants lack nerve connections, but most patients find them stable and functional during daily activities like eating and speaking. Although there may be an adjustment period as your mouth adapts to the dental implant, most patients report significant improvement in comfort and sensitivity after the healing process.

Cost and Investment

Preserving natural teeth is generally more cost-effective in the long run. The cost of routine dental care—cleanings, fillings, and occasional repairs—is manageable for most patients. However, neglecting your teeth can result in costly restorative procedures in the future.

The cost of dental implants involves a significant upfront investment, often exceeding that of other tooth replacement options. Despite this, their durability and ability to preserve bone health make them a worthwhile investment for many patients. Over time, they will save costs by reducing the need for frequent repairs or replacements.

Are Dental Implants Better Than Real Teeth?

Implants are the best choice to replace damaged or missing teeth. Implants will never decay and that makes them a great long-term solution for patients. 

Preserving your own teeth remains the ideal choice when possible. Healthy teeth provide unmatched functionality and aesthetics, and maintaining them is less invasive and costly than undergoing implant surgery. 

If your teeth are severely damaged or decayed and require extensive restorative work, consult with a dentist who specializes in implant dentistry to discuss your options. 

For natural teeth that are missing or can no longer be saved, the team at our Bakersfield, CA dental office would recommend dental implants—the closest thing to natural teeth!