Dentures vs. Dental Implants: What to Consider for Missing teeth?

When it comes to replacing your missing teeth, you may wonder whether to choose dentures or dental implants. While both look and feel like your natural teeth, there are some differences between the two in terms of cost, requirements, etc.

Knowing all your need to know about dentures and dental implants (from cost to upkeep and durability) can help you make an informed decision.

Dentures Vs. Dental Implants – How Do They Differ?

Dentures

Dentures are removable tooth replacement options designed to replace all or a few missing teeth in either the upper or lower jaw. Dentures do not require bone support, so you can use them even if you have bone loss.

• The dentist will take the impression of your upper or lower jaw or both. They will review your bite and jaw alignment to make appropriate, well-fitting dentures that help you perform oral functions comfortably and naturally.
• Preliminary dentures will be placed in your mouth to see how they fit and complement your aesthetics. Your dentist will make the required adjustments (in terms of alignment or dentures’ length) before your final set of dentures is made.
• Custom dentures will be inserted into your mouth with a special adhesive that perfectly bonds them to your gums.

Dental Implants

Implants are small titanium posts that are screwed to the jawbone to create a foundation for the artificial teeth (dentures). You must have healthy gums and adequate jawbone to accommodate and support the implants.

The procedure for dental implants includes:

• Removing a damaged root, so a hole can be drilled into your jawbone to place the implant.
• Placing an implant post deep into your jawbone and covering it with a crown at the top. The crown will secure the post until bone starts to grow around it.
• After two months, an abutment will be placed between the crown and the post. However, sometimes, the abutment will be placed as soon as the post is implanted.
• You will receive a custom artificial tooth that is attached to the abutment.

How Much Do Dentures and Dental Implants Cost?

Dental implants cost slightly more than dentures. The American Dental Association (ADA) reveals that the average cost of an implant may range anywhere between $1,600 to $2,200.

The cost of dentures varies depending on:

• The type of dentures (full or partial)
• Any additional treatment required (tooth extraction, tooth, and gum preparation, cleaning, etc.)

Recommended Age for Dentures and Dental Implants

Both dentures and dental implants suit people of all ages. As dental implants are a permanent, lifelike tooth replacement option, younger patients or those with healthy gums and jawbones usually opt for implants.

Besides requiring enough bone structure, implants are an invasive and time-consuming procedure, so older adults mostly prefer dentures.

Taking Care of Dentures and Dental Implants

For dental implants, it is enough to practice good oral hygiene as you do for your natural teeth, including:

• Brushing twice a day
• Flossing once a day
• Visiting your dentist every six months

However, plenty of care and maintenance is required for dentures to help them last longer, including:

• Remove your dentures at night and soak them in water or denture cleaning solution.
• Clean your mouth after removing dentures. This helps remove any remaining denture adhesive from your gums.
• Brush your dentures every day with a soft-bristled brush and nonabrasive denture cleanser to remove plaque, food particles, and other deposits.
• Thoroughly rinse your dentures before putting them back, especially if you soak them in a denture cleanser.

Dentures need to be relined every 2-5 years. However, dental implants may require replacement only if the crown is cracked or broken.

Which Lasts Longer Dentures or Implants?

Dentures can last for 5-8 years, but with proper care and maintenance, implants can last for 25 years or more.

Is It Better to Have Dentures or Implants?

Dentures are cost-effective and you can remove them at any time for any reason. However, if not fitted properly, they can:

• Slip while talking or eating
• Cause infection or tooth decay

On the other hand, dental implants are a little expensive, but they will stay in place, helping you confidently interact in social gatherings.

While both dentures and implants have advantages and disadvantages, it is good to discuss with your dentist to make the right yet feasible decision.

Ready to Restore Your Tooth? We Can Help

Whether you need dentures or dental implants, we are ready to customize them to help you achieve optimal oral health with an attractive smile. Our dentist, Dr. Beth Vander Schaaf, has years of experience and expertise in replacing missing teeth with dentures/dental implants, ensuring desired, natural-looking results. Contact us today at Smile Arizona Dentistry to begin your tooth restoration journey.

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