Dentures or implants? It’s a dilemma faced by many people looking to restore their smile. You deserve a solution that looks natural, enables you to chew and speak clearly, and protects any remaining healthy teeth. But which is it to be, what’s right for you?
We’ll delve into all of this shortly, but for now, let’s start by talking briefly about the importance of replacing missing teeth.
While many people are tempted to avoid replacing a missing tooth, not fixing the problem can result in painful, costly, and long-term health problems.
How come?
The main role of the jaw is to support the teeth. Unfortunately, when a tooth is lost or extracted, the bone becomes surplus to requirements. As a result, the bone that was supporting the missing tooth slowly starts to atrophy and disintegrate. This, in turn, leads to a sunken appearance which can make you look older.
And that’s not the only issue with missing teeth ……
Other dental health problems include:
- Misaligned or crooked neighbouring teeth
- Difficulties in brushing and flossing
- Weaker teeth, meaning more chance of chips and cracks
- Increased risk of gum disease and more tooth loss
As you can see, it’s vital to replace missing teeth as soon as you can. Finding a dentist that offers consultation and discusses your options is vital.
So, back to dental implants vs dentures – What’s the difference?
Now you have a better understanding of the importance of replacing missing teeth, let’s take a closer look dental implants vs dentures replacement options:
Dentures
Dentures are a type of prosthetic appliance that is held in place by the soft and hard tissues of the mouth. There are two types to choose from:
- Partial dentures – Used when you still have some healthy teeth remaining
- Complete (full) dentures – Used when the majority or all of your teeth are missing
While conventional dentures are removable, there is also another hybrid option which combines both a dental implant and dentures to help secure dentures firmly in place.
Modern-day dentures are far removed from the dentures of old. Thanks to advances in technology, they are custom-made to fit your mouth accurately and look incredibly life-like. Like dental implants, they fully restore your ability to chew and speak properly but there the similarities end.
Dental implants
Dental implants are the gold standard of tooth replacement and not without good reason.
When a dental implant is surgically placed into the jaw, it takes on the role of an artificial tooth root – fusing with the bone tissue in a process known as osseointegration. Once the titanium root and the bone have amalgamated, it collectively provides a solid platform for a restoration. This can include:
- A dental crown
- Part of a bridge to replace several consecutive missing teeth
- Complete or partial denture
Dental implants do a fantastic job of restoring your smile to their natural and beautiful appearance.
A dental implant:
- Is made from titanium which is biocompatible and safe
- Restores the ability to speak and chew
- Closely resembles natural teeth
- Is long-lasting and extremely durable
- Promotes healthy gums
- Strengthens the jaw bone
So, let’s get back to your dilemma – dental implants or dentures – what’s right for you?
When you’re considering replacing missing teeth, the most important thing is to get advice from a dentist that offers consultation. Based on your situation and oral health, it may be that one option is better suited than the other.
That said, if your dentist states that both dental implants and dentures are a suitable option for you, it’s crunch time! How do you decide?
Obviously, your dentist can break down both restorative options in terms of what you can expect from each procedure and the costs involved, but there are still a few other considerations to mull over. Let’s start with dentures.
Dentures may be a better option…
- When you’re looking to pay less upfront
- If you’re looking for a quick fix. Dentures can be completed within 2 to 6 weeks whereas dental implants can take up to 6 months or more
- If you’re not a good candidate for dental implants but still want to benefit from a full set of natural-looking teeth
Some of the downsides of dentures vs a dental implant include:
- Removable dentures need thorough daily cleaning
- Even though custom dentures are made to perfectly fit your mouth there will still be a period of adjustment. During this time, your mouth will have to get accustomed to them, you’ll need to learn how to speak properly wearing them, and how to eat with them
- Dentures also need replacing every 5-10 years
Dental implants vs Dentures
Dental implants may be a better option when you:
- Want a permanent solution to tooth loss
- Don’t want the hassle of special cleaning and frequent replacements
- Want a solution that looks and feels like you got your natural teeth back again
- Want to stabilise the jaw and prevent bone atrophy
- Want a solution that when compared to dentures is aesthetically superior
- Would like to be able to eat any foods without restriction
When comparing dental implants vs dentures there are a few downsides, as follows:
- A dental implant is more expensive initially but when you include cleaning costs and replacements of dentures, dental implants provide a better long-term solution
- Comparing dental implants vs dentures a dental implant may take up to 6-9 months to complete
- A dental implant also requires surgery
So, what’s best for you – dental implants vs dentures?
While both have their pros and cons, dental implants emerge as the clear winner in terms of longevity, aesthetics, and convenience, and for many people, can be life-changing.
At Dental 266 we provide custom dentures and top-quality dental implants using proven brands. Schedule a consultation at your local dental clinic: call (02) 9051 0600 or book your appointment online.