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
- Durability: dental implants last a lifetime with proper care, so they're the perfect long-term solution for missing teeth.
- Natural appearance: implants look and feel just like natural teeth! They blend 100% naturally with your existing teeth.
- 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.
- 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.
- Comfort and stability: implanted devices are firmly secured within the jawbone, facilitating comfortable oral function.
- Cost: dental implants may be more expensive than denture options, which could limit their accessibility to certain patients.
- Surgical procedure: the surgical procedure involved in implant placement may act as a deterrent for some patients, as it is a relatively invasive procedure.
- 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
- Cost-effective: dentures offer the most economical solution when it comes to tooth replacement, and they're also an extremely affordable choice.
- Non-invasive: Dentures are a less invasive option than implants because they do not require surgery for placement.
- Easy to fix: If dentures become damaged or ill-fitting, you don’t have to worry—repair or adjustment is simple.
- Reversible: dentures are an effective and reversible treatment for missing teeth, unlike implants which require irreversible changes to the jawbone.
- Stability: dentures are not as stable as implants, particularly lower dentures. They can and will move around while eating or speaking.
- Maintenance: dentures must be cleaned regularly and thoroughly to prevent bacteria buildup and maintain their appearance.
- Replacement: dentures must be replaced every 5-7 years, which adds to the long-term cost of treatment.