Dental Implants vs. Dentures: Weighing the Pros and Cons to Make the Right Choice

If you're missing a tooth or a set of teeth, you might be wondering whether dental implants or dentures are the right choice for you. We're here to help! Both have their own set of pros and cons, so it can be tough to know where to start. In this blog post, we'll take a closer look at dental implants and dentures. We'll explore the pros and cons of each so you can make the best decision for your smile.

Dental Implants

Dental implants are a great solution for those who are missing teeth. They are artificial tooth roots that are surgically placed into the jawbone to support a replacement tooth or bridge. They're the gold standard for tooth replacement because they're so durable and look so natural.

Pros and Cons of Dental Implants

1. Durability: dental implants last a lifetime with proper care, so they're the perfect long-term solution for missing teeth.
2. Natural appearance: implants look and feel just like natural teeth! They blend 100% naturally with your existing teeth.
3. Enhanced oral health: in contrast to dentures, which can serve as a reservoir for bacteria, implants do not necessitate the implementation of specific cleansing and upkeep procedures.
4. Jawbone Retention: implants have the capacity to stimulate the jawbone, thereby preventing further loss of the bone and maintaining the structure of the facial region.
5. Comfort and stability: implanted devices are firmly secured within the jawbone, facilitating comfortable oral function.
6. Cost: dental implants may be more expensive than denture options, which could limit their accessibility to certain patients.
7. Surgical procedure: the surgical procedure involved in implant placement may act as a deterrent for some patients, as it is a relatively invasive procedure.
8. Healing time: The process of integrating the implant into the jawbone may require several months, necessitating multiple appointments.

Denture

Dentures are the most popular and effective way to replace missing teeth. There are two main types: partial dentures, which replace a few teeth, and full dentures, which replace all teeth in a row. Each type offers a different solution to meet specific needs and preferences. Complete dentures, often called full dentures, are the most common and are used when all teeth are missing. They can be either conventional or immediate. 

If some natural teeth remain, partial dentures are the way to go. They can be made of cast metal or acrylic. Implant-supported dentures are the most stable option, attached to dental implants. Overdentures are also a good choice, fitting over remaining natural teeth or implants. Immediate dentures are placed immediately after tooth extraction, and snap-in dentures attach to dental implants for added stability. Each type of denture has its advantages and disadvantages. It is essential to consult with your dentist to determine the most suitable option for you.

Pros and Cons of Dentures

1. Cost-effective: dentures offer the most economical solution when it comes to tooth replacement, and they're also an extremely affordable choice.
2. Non-invasive: Dentures are a less invasive option than implants because they do not require surgery for placement.
3. Easy to fix: If dentures become damaged or ill-fitting, you don’t have to worry—repair or adjustment is simple.
4. Reversible: dentures are an effective and reversible treatment for missing teeth, unlike implants which require irreversible changes to the jawbone.
5. Stability: dentures are not as stable as implants, particularly lower dentures. They can and will move around while eating or speaking.
6. Maintenance: dentures must be cleaned regularly and thoroughly to prevent bacteria buildup and maintain their appearance.
7. Replacement: dentures must be replaced every 5-7 years, which adds to the long-term cost of treatment.

Dental Implants vs. Dentures: Choosing the Right One

When it comes to dental implants and dentures, there are a few things to think about to help you make the best decision for your needs. 

• Longevity: dental implants are a great, more permanent solution than dentures. They're designed to last a lifetime with proper care, so you can enjoy a beautiful, confident smile for years to come! Dentures might need to be replaced every five to seven years, as they can wear out over time.
• Aesthetic: dental implants are a great option for those looking to improve their smile. They look and feel more like natural teeth than dentures, which can sometimes appear a bit artificial. This is especially true if they are not well-fitted or if the gum color does not match the natural gum color.
• Cost: dental implants are often more expensive at the start than dentures, but they can be a great long-term investment because they last so much longer. Dentures can be a great option initially as they’re often more affordable. However, they do require more frequent replacement and maintenance, and this can add up over time, so you may need to budget for this.
• Oral health: we all want our jawbones to stay strong as we age, right? Well, dental implants are a great way to help preserve jawbone density, while dentures don't provide the same level of stimulation to the jawbone. Unfortunately, this can lead to bone resorption over time, which can affect the fit and comfort of dentures.
• Comfort and convenience: dental implants are a great option for those looking to improve their eating and speaking abilities. They're more stable and comfortable than dentures, so you can enjoy a more confident and comfortable lifestyle. Dentures can sometimes cause a little discomfort, but don't worry! This is normal. Your dentist can help you adjust or reline them periodically to ensure a proper fit.
• Maintenance: dental implants are just like natural teeth in that they require regular brushing and flossing to stay healthy. Dentures need to be cleaned every day, so it's important to remove them at night and soak them in a denture solution. This helps keep them clean and prevents them from drying out.
• Bone health: Dental implants are a wonderful way to help keep your jawbone strong and healthy, which can really improve your overall oral health and help to prevent changes in your facial appearance. Dentures don’t offer the same stimulation to the jawbone that dental implants provide. This can lead to bone resorption over time.

Conclusion

Both dental implants and dentures have their own set of pros and cons, but we're here to help you figure out which one is best for you! Dental implants are a great option for many people because they're durable, look natural, and offer long-term benefits. However, dentures are a great, more affordable, and less invasive option that can provide great results for those who aren't good candidates for implants. Ultimately, we’re here to help you figure out the best option for you, your budget, and your oral health! please don't hesitate to contact us. We're here to help!