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.