When looking to replace missing teeth, the most common options include dental implants and dentures. Both procedures have benefits and potential disadvantages. Therefore, making a choice between them is a challenge for most. Our expert medical team at Suwanee Smile & Shine Dental can help you make this decision based on your lifestyle and oral health. Here in this blog, we will be talking about Dentures vs. Dental implants, and which one might be best suited for you.

Introduction: An Overview of Dentures and Implants

Dentures and implants share the same general purpose: to restore shape and function after tooth loss. However, both vary when it comes to composition, procedure, upkeep, and overall effect on oral health. Understanding these differences is essential in determining what is best for you.

What Are Dentures?

Dentures are temporary oral prosthetic devices used for replacing missing teeth and associated support tissues. There are two general categories of dentures:

• Complete Dentures: Complete dentures are used when all the teeth have been lost.
• Partial Dentures: Partial dentures are used when there are natural teeth still present.

Dentures are made of durable material such as acrylic resin and may be created to maintain a natural appearance of the teeth.

What Are Dental Implants?

Implants are permanent retainers that substitute natural tooth roots with tooth implants by employing metal posts, most frequently made of titanium. The posts are inserted in the jawbone in an effort to keep the attached false teeth fixed permanently. It is considered an osseointegration process where the implant is inserted into the bone to offer support and covering.

Primary differences between implants and dentures

• Stability: Implants are stable as they are anchored in the jawbone, whereas dentures are attached on top of the teeth.
• Procedure: Implants require surgery; dentures do not.
• Maintenance: Dentures must be cleaned and taken out from time to time, whereas implants have to be cleaned like any other tooth.
• Longevity: Implants will last for a few decades if properly taken care of; dentures will typically need to be replaced/rearranged.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Dentures

Advantages

• Less initial expense: Dentures are less expensive to buy than implants.
• No surgery, no incision: Having dentures is a simple process and involves no surgery.
• Suitable for those with shallow bone: Dentures can be worn by individuals who do not have suitable bone structure for implants.

Disadvantages:

• Will move or shift while eating/talking: Dentures move around and may be embarrassing or uncomfortable at times.
• Requires adhesives and upkeep: Dentures require adhesives at all times so they will still fit tightly and feel natural.
• May lead to bone loss in the long run: Since the roots of teeth do not stimulate the jawbone, the bone may grow weak.

Dental Implants Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Natural appearance and sensation: Implants precisely mimic natural teeth in shape and function.
• Prevent Bone Loss: Implants stimulate the jawbone and do not permit loss.
• Permanent solution: Implants are a long-lasting solution to missing teeth, as they permanently substitute a tooth.

Cons:

• More Initial Cost: Implants are more expensive than dentures.
• Surgical Procedure: Dental implant surgery may involve potential health risks. Not for Everybody: Dental implants are not for people with poor health or inadequate bone structure.

Cost of Dentures vs. Implants

Dentures cost less initially and are therefore cheaper for many patients. Although implants cost more initially, they are worthwhile in the long run, as they last longer and seldomly need to be replaced. Who Should Wear Dentures?

Dentures are a suitable solution for patients who:

• Do not prefer a surgical procedure.
• Have multiple missing teeth, mostly where implants are not suitable.
• Do not possess sufficient bone to support implants.

Who Is Suitable for Dental Implants?

• Dental implants can be suitable for a patient who:
• Prefers a long-term solution or full restoration.
• Has sufficient bone to hold the implants.

Care and Maintenance of Dentures and Implants

Both dentures and implants require proper care:

• Dentures: Dentures must be removed daily, brushed thoroughly, and put in a safe place so that they are clean and properly fitting.
• Implants: Brush and floss implants like your natural teeth. Be sure to visit your dental hygienist on a regular basis so your implants receive proper care.

Faqs:

Q. What is more natural?

Ans: Dental implants will feel and look more natural, just like natural teeth.

Q. Do dental implants hurt?

Ans: The dental implant procedure is surgical, and therefore may be slightly painful. However, pre-and post-operative pain control and anesthesia will reduce pain.

Q. Can I switch from dentures to implants in the future?

Ans: The majority of patients transition from dentures to implants. A complete workup will be required to assess bone quality and the suitability of an implant.

A gap in your teeth may decrease your confidence in your smile. If you have lost only a few teeth, partial dentures may be the answer to restore your smile. Partial dentures are removable dentures that will complete your smile, improve chewing efficiency, and stop your other teeth from moving.

At Smile & Shine Dental, we employ highly trained professionals to provide you with the best partial dentures so that you can smile naturally. This blog will explain what partial dentures are, how they work, the cost, and care tips.

What are Partial Dentures?

When patients only experience the loss of a few teeth, partial dentures are one of the most universally used treatments. Partial dentures help to keep a patient’s smile aesthetically pleasing, healthy, and functioning.
Partial dentures are customized dental restorations that both feel and appear natural. According to desire and necessity, patients are provided with removable or fixed partial dentures.

Types of Partial Dentures

Partial dentures come in various models depending on a patient’s particular dental condition and requirements. The two most commonly utilized partial dentures are:

• Removable Partial Dentures: Removable partial dentures are taken out for cleaning and are retained by clasps or precision attachments.
• Fixed Partial Dentures: Fixed partial dentures provide a relatively more fixed option. These types of dentures anchor dental bridges with cemented teeth and are not removable.

How Do Partial Dentures Work?

Partial dentures work by filling in gaps of lost teeth. Partial dentures are attached to a patient’s remaining natural teeth in a stable and supportive way. Removable partial dentures involve the use of clasps, whereas fixed partial dentures are cemented permanently on adjacent teeth for a firm grip. These dental appliances distribute chewing forces evenly so that no excessive force is on natural teeth.

Partial dentures vs. complete dentures

Understanding partial dentures vs full dentures will help to determine the correct choice for your dental requirements. Partial dentures are held firmly among remaining teeth, while full dentures are for those who have lost all their teeth. Complete dentures sit on gums, but partial dentures sit on natural teeth.

Materials Used in Partial Dentures

Partial dentures may be designed with a combination of materials, including:

• Metal Partial Dentures: Metal partial dentures are made of Cobalt-chromium; these dentures are alloy-based, strong, and resistant.
• Acrylic Partial Dentures: Acrylic partial dentures are less resistant than metal, but are often more cost-effective.
• Flexible Partial Dentures: These dentures are pliable, thermoplastic, or based on nylon, and cosmetic.

You can decide between metal vs. acrylic partial dentures based on costs, durability, and preference.

Advantages of Partial Dentures

Partial dentures have numerous advantages, which include:

• Restore chewing and speech function.
• Improve your smile.
• Prevent the movement of existing teeth.
• Affordable tooth replacement solutions.
• Adjustable partial solutions for comfort and a better fit

Partial Dentures Cost

The cost of partial dentures will depend on a variety of factors, including:

• Type of material utilized.
• Number of teeth to be replaced.
• Dental clinic location.
• Type of Denture (fixed or removable).

Partial dentures tend to range from $500 to $2,500 for an arch. The most suitable partial dentures for missing teeth should provide the patient balance between cost and lifespan.

Alternatives to Partial Dentures

There are numerous alternatives to partial dentures. Some other options include:

• Dental Implants: Implants are long-lasting and have a natural look, but can be costly.
• Dental Bridges: They are fixed bridges that are supported by abutment teeth.
• Complete Dentures: These are for those who have no natural teeth.

Partial denture options are based on price, oral hygiene, and desire.

How to Care for Partial Dentures

Proper care ensures that your partial dentures stay in good condition and feel comfortable. Partial denture maintenance entails:

• Denture cleaner for daily cleaning.
• Avoid washing dentures with hot water. Brush your gum and natural teeth regularly to prevent decay. Visit your dentist for adjustments.

Common Problems with Partial Denture & Solutions

Some patients experience problems with partial dentures. The most prevalent issues are:

1. Pain or Discomfort: Usually, with new dentures, adjustments can be made to fix potential pain.
2. Eating Problem: You can start with soft food and gradually move towards more complex foods.
3. Speech Difficulty: Practicing speaking with dentures regularly to get used to wearing them in the long term.
4. Loose Fit: Proper adjustments or renewal are necessary once in a while.
5. Staining and Odor: Daily cleaning prevents them from accumulating and smelling.

Faqs:

Q. How long do partial dentures last?

Ans: With proper care, partial dentures may last 5-10 years. Regular dental check-ups can further maintain them.

Q. May partial dentures be worn at night?

Ans: No, do not sleep with dentures, as they can cause gum irritation and bacterial activity.

Q. Are partial dentures uncomfortable?

Ans: Partial dentures are not uncomfortable. Although they may feel awkward at first, they will adjust to a patient’s mouth later. Fitting correctly and adjustments are also important.

Q. How frequently do I need to replace my partial dentures?

Ans: Partial dentures must be replaced every 5-10 years because they wear down. Your oral anatomy will also change..

Q. How easy are partial dentures to eat with?

Ans: You can start with soft foods, not sticky or hard foods, until you have acclimated to them.

At Smile & Shine Dental, we provide great partial dentures to help you regain your smile and confidence. You can call us today to learn more about the best partial dentures for missing teeth or schedule your custom partial denture appointment.