A full, healthy smile is about more than aesthetics—it’s crucial for your overall dental health. Whether you’re dealing with tooth loss due to decay, injury, or another reason, replacing missing teeth can prevent a host of dental issues, including bone loss and the remaining teeth shifting out of place.
Among the popular solutions, dentures and dental implants offer distinct benefits, each catering to different needs. Dentures are removable dental appliances designed to replace missing teeth, while dental implants are permanent fixtures that involve surgically placing artificial teeth directly into the jawbone.
What Are Dentures?
Dentures are just one option for replacing missing teeth. They’re custom-made to fit your mouth and are typically constructed from acrylic resin, sometimes combined with metal attachments. Dentures help restore functionality in chewing and speaking while also improving the appearance of your smile.
Dentures come in various forms, each serving unique needs. Types of dentures include:
- Full Dentures: These are used when all teeth in the upper or lower jaw are missing. They provide a comprehensive solution for complete tooth loss and are designed to fit securely over the gums.
- Partial Dentures: Ideal for individuals who have some remaining natural teeth, partial dentures fill the gaps and help maintain the mouth’s structure while preventing other teeth from shifting.
- Implant-Supported Dentures: These dentures are anchored by dental implants, providing enhanced stability and comfort. They are particularly beneficial for those looking for a more secure alternative to traditional dentures.
You may also receive temporary dentures. These are placed in the mouth immediately after a tooth extraction. These allow you to have a functional smile while waiting for us to craft your permanent dentures.
Pros & Cons of Dentures
Dentures are a noninvasive, cost-effective option for many patients. They can be easily adjusted as your mouth structure changes over time.
However, they may require periodic replacement or relining. Some users find them less comfortable than other options since they may move while eating or speaking. Adjusting to dentures can take time, particularly when it comes to dealing with the initial soreness.
What Are Dental Implants?
A dental implant is a permanent tooth replacement consisting of a titanium post surgically placed into the jawbone. These posts act as the roots for artificial teeth, such as crowns, bridges, or dentures. Your dentist can mount these prosthetics onto your implants, providing a stable and natural-looking alternative to missing teeth.
The implant process involves several steps:
- First, a surgeon implants the titanium post into the jawbone under local anesthesia. This step creates a stable foundation for the artificial tooth.
- You’ll then be sent home for a healing period. This allows for osseointegration, a process where the bone fuses with the implant, which typically takes several months to ensure the implant is securely anchored.
- Once healed, your surgeon will attach a connector piece (abutment) to the implant. This serves as the support for the artificial crown.
- Finally, a custom-made crown is crafted to match the appearance of your natural teeth and is securely placed on the abutment, completing the implant process.
Once the implant is in place, it can last a lifetime, though you may need to replace the crown. With CEREC technology, we could even make you a whole new, personalized crown in as little as 1 day!
Pros & Cons of Dental Implants
Dental implants are celebrated for their durability and ability to mimic the look and feel of natural teeth. They help preserve the jawbone and prevent bone loss, which is a common issue with missing teeth.
However, they come with a higher upfront cost and require a healthy jawbone for placement, meaning some people may not be eligible. The surgical aspect may also deter some patients, though the results can be well worth the investment.
Key Differences Between Dentures & Dental Implants
When looking at dentures vs. implants, the most significant differences come down to:
- Longevity
- Aesthetics
- Maintenance
- Cost
Longevity & Durability
Dental implants often last a lifetime with proper care, while dentures typically need replacement every 5–10 years due to wear and changes in the mouth. Implants can provide a permanent solution by becoming part of the jawbone, whereas dentures rely on resting on the gums.
Aesthetics & Natural Feel
Many patients find that implants offer a more natural look and feel compared to dentures. Since they’re anchored into the jaw, they function similarly to natural teeth. Although dentures have improved in appearance over the years, some users feel they don’t completely replicate the feel of natural teeth.
Maintenance & Care Requirements
Dentures require daily removal for cleaning and may necessitate adhesives for stability. In contrast, dental implants are cared for like natural teeth, with regular brushing, flossing, and dental checkups.
Cost Considerations
While dental implants involve higher initial costs, they may be cost-effective in the long run due to their durability. Dentures are often more affordable upfront but might incur additional costs for adjustments and replacements over time.
Bridging the Gap to Your New Smile
When deciding between dentures and dental implants, consider your lifestyle, budget, oral health, and personal preferences. Some people may be unable to get implants because they don’t have enough strength in their jaw—though a doctor could address this with a bone graft.
Fortunately, you don’t have to make the decision alone! At Arch Dental, we can help you understand your options, the benefits, and the suitability of each option. Both solutions offer pathways to restoring your dental health, and we’re proud to play our part in helping you achieve the smile you deserve. Book your appointment today and keep smiling!
