Dentures vs Dental Implants for Tooth Replacement

One of the biggest decisions anyone with missing teeth can make concerning their smile restoration is whether they should choose dentures vs. dental implants. Both options serve similar purposes, but they vary widely in their suitability. The only way to know for sure is to consult with a dentist, but for now, you can read on to learn more about which option might be right for you.

Dentures

Dentures are a removable teeth replacement option that can be used to replace some or all of your missing teeth. Getting dentures starts with a consultation with your dentist to discuss your needs and potential options.

If dentures are a suitable option, your dentist will prepare an impression or digital scan of your mouth, which will be used to craft your custom-fit dentures in an outside lab.

Once the dentures are ready, additional adjustments may be needed. Your dentist will work with you on an ongoing basis to ensure your dentures remain comfortable and functional.

Dental Implants

Dental implants are a permanent solution for missing teeth, meaning they aren’t removable. They’re titanium posts that are surgically implanted in the jawbone to provide the strongest possible foundation for the tooth replacement that sits on top. They can be used for full-arch rehabilitation or to replace individual or multiple missing teeth.

Getting dental implants requires careful planning based on 3D scans of your mouth, and the surgery itself is planned in detail and will often require the use of the latest dental technology for the highest level of precision.

The dental implants serve as a base for a crown, bridge, All-on-4 full arch replacements, or implant-supported dentures. The tooth replacements are carefully developed and custom-made to provide a completely natural appearance.

Cost

In general, dentures are the cheaper of the two options. Dental implants require major dental surgery and just as much or even more custom tooth replacement development. This can drive costs much higher than standard dentures.

However, there are considerable benefits in quality of life, long-term health, and other areas that can justify that cost. And over the years, the initial upfront cost of implants pays off, as you won’t have to worry about paying for a new set of teeth every time they need to be replaced, like you would with dentures. A wide range of financing options are available that could make dental implants more accessible than you might think.

Procedure

Getting dentures is a much simpler procedure than getting dental implants. Implants require surgery, which is often followed by a considerable recovery time. Certain patients may also require bone grafts to increase jawbone support at the implant site, which will require additional surgery.

While dental implants require a bit more commitment, the surgery only needs to be performed once and can provide a lifetime of benefits.

Longevity

With dental implants, the titanium implant posts are typically considered permanent and are expected to last for the patient’s lifetime. The crowns or All-on-4 tooth replacements that sit atop can last upward of 10 to 15 years each, at which point they can be easily replaced without additional surgery.

Most standard dentures last up to five years. They are susceptible to wear and cracking, and they will also gradually change in shape. When this happens, they won’t fit as well, which can lead to significant soreness and reduced effectiveness. This is when it’s a good idea to visit your dentist for an adjustment or to discuss a replacement.

Quality of Life

Both implants and dentures can significantly improve the quality of life of individuals with missing teeth. However, dental implants have many notable advantages over dentures.

Because dental implants have a solid foundation in the jawbone, they are incredibly strong and can stand up to the stresses of chewing and other daily activities with more ease than dentures.

Dental implants also provide a better foundation for lifelong oral health. Jawbone deterioration is a significant long-term health risk for patients with dentures. Without the natural resistance provided by tooth roots, the jawbone begins to deteriorate rapidly. Dental implants provide similar resistance, greatly reducing deterioration.

When used in patients with remaining natural teeth, dental implants also help prevent future tooth loss. They prevent unwanted movement and shifting in the remaining natural teeth, reducing the chances of future dental issues developing.

Find out which option is right for you.

The only way to know for sure which option is right for you is to schedule a consultation with a dentist. At Millennium Dental, we can show you all of your options and help you determine whether you’re a good candidate for dental implants or if dentures would be preferable.

If you’re in need of a smile restoration, the team at Millennium Dental is here for you. We can ensure that you get the most effective restorative treatments for your individual needs. Contact Millennium Dental today to schedule an appointment for your consultation.