Dentures vs. Implants: Which Is Better?

Dentures vs. Implants: Which Is Better? By Maylands Dental Centre | November 28, 2022

Dentures vs. Implants: Which Is Better?

If you’re missing one or more teeth, you may wonder which teeth replacement option is better for you. Dentures and dental implants are both viable options. Each has pros and cons, so deciding which is right for you can be tough.

This post will explore the differences between dentures and dental implants. We’ll also look at the advantages and disadvantages of dental implants and dentures so you can make an informed decision about your oral health.

Keep reading to learn more.

What Are Dental Implants?

Dental implants are screw-like posts that are surgically inserted into the jawbone to serve as artificial roots of teeth. They provide a strong foundation for dental prosthetics, such as crowns, bridges, and dentures.

Unlike dental appliances that are only supported by the gums, dental implants fuse with the jawbone to create a secure, long-lasting connection. The success rate for dental implants is quite high, and they can last for more than 20 years with proper care.

If you are missing one or more teeth, talk to your dentist about whether a tooth implant is right for you.

dentist explaining teeth image on the screen

How Do Dental Implants Work?

The implant is a small metal post or a titanium screw placed in the jaw bone. The titanium implant serves as the artificial tooth root, taking the place of the lost natural tooth root.

Once the implant has healed, a metal connector piece, called an abutment, is placed on top of the implant. Finally, a dental prosthetic, such as a dental crown, bridge, or denture, which replaces missing teeth, is placed on top of the abutment.

Your dentist will develop a personalised treatment plan to ensure that your dental implants are placed correctly and that you experience a successful outcome.

The entire process is usually done in stages and takes several months to complete, so you will need to visit your dentist several times over a period of months to complete the process. Once the dental implant is in place, it should function like a natural tooth.

Advantages of Dental Implants

Dental implants are quickly becoming the preferred treatment option for patients missing one or more teeth. And it’s no wonder why – dental implants offer many advantages over traditional dentures.

Here are just a few reasons to consider dental implants:

Dental implants are more durable than traditional dentures and can last for decades with proper care.

  1. Dental implants look and feel like natural teeth.
  2. Dental implants anchor into the jaw bone, providing additional support and stability. They don’t slip or move like traditional dentures.
  3. Dental implants can support a single tooth, multiple teeth, or even a full denture.
  4. Because they are securely anchored, dental implants eliminate the need for messy denture adhesives.
  5. Dental implants are easier to clean than dentures and require no special care or cleaning products.
  6. The success rate for dental implants is high, and complications are rare.

If you’re considering dental implants, discuss the advantages and disadvantages with your dentist to see if they’re the right choice for you.

Disadvantages of Dental Implants

Dental implants may be a popular and effective way to replace missing teeth, but they’re not right for everyone. Here are some disadvantages of dental implants to consider before getting them:

  1. Dental implants require surgery, which carries some risks, such as infection, damage to adjacent teeth, and nerve damage.
  2. Dental implants require a strong jaw bone to support them, and if your jaw bone is too soft or thin, you may not be a good candidate for implants. Adequate bone density is a requirement for dental implant procedures.
  3. Dental implant treatment can be costly and may not be covered by dental insurance.
  4. If you have dental implants, you may need to avoid certain foods that can damage your implants, such as hard candy and sticky foods.
  5. There’s also a chance that your body may reject the implant, and this can happen even if you follow all of your dentist’s instructions for care after the surgery.

Dental implants are a suitable option for many people, but it’s important to weigh all the disadvantages before deciding about your oral health.

What Are Dentures?

Dentures are oral prosthetic devices used to replace missing teeth. Depending on how many teeth are missing, an individual can receive either partial or complete dentures.

  • Partial dentures are used when some natural teeth remain in the mouth. A metal framework or clasps attach to the remaining teeth, providing retention for the denture. The pontics (false teeth) are attached to the framework. Partial dentures can be removed from the mouth for easy cleaning.
  • Complete dentures are used when all of the natural teeth are missing. The upper denture is usually held in place by natural suction, while stronger muscles and the tongue supports the lower. Complete dentures must be removed nightly for proper cleaning and soaking.

Each patient’s treatment plan is unique and depends on individual needs and desires. Dentists will work with patients to determine what type of denture is right for them based on factors such as budget, lifestyle, health history, and cosmetic concerns.

Dentures can last years with proper care and maintenance, providing patients with a functional and esthetically pleasing smile.

senior man having dental treatment at dentist's office.

How Do Dentures Work?

Dentures act as replacement teeth and can be used to improve the appearance of your smile and support the cheeks and lips. They are usually made of an acrylic resin base and porcelain or acrylic teeth.

If you have lost your natural teeth due to injury, gum disease, or tooth decay, dentures can give you back your smile.

Advantages of Dentures

Dentures have been used for centuries as a tooth replacement option and offer a variety of advantages for those looking for an affordable, effective solution. Here are some key advantages of dentures:

  1. Dentures are a tried and true tooth replacement option that has been used for centuries.
  2. Dentures are relatively affordable, especially compared to other tooth replacement options, such as implants.
  3. Dentures can be custom-made to match your real teeth, giving you a natural-looking smile.
  4. Dentures can be removed and cleaned easily, making them easy to care for.
  5. Dentures can help restore chewing and speaking ability and improve appearance.
  6. Depending on your needs and treatment plan, dentures can be a temporary or permanent tooth replacement option. 
  7. Traditional denture wearers report high levels of satisfaction with their dentures, making them a popular choice for tooth replacement.

If you are considering dentures as a tooth replacement option, be sure to also discuss the disadvantages with your dentist to determine if they are the right option for you.

Disadvantages of Dentures

Though dentures have been around for centuries, they are not without disadvantages. Here are some of them:

  1. Dentures can be uncomfortable and take some time to get used to. It’s not uncommon for patients to experience soreness or even pain when wearing dentures, particularly when they’re new.
  2. Although dentures can restore your chewing ability, patients may have difficulty eating certain foods, such as crunchy or chewy foods. 
  3. Loose dentures can cause speech problems. The movement of the dentures can make it difficult for patients to enunciate certain words properly.
  4. Dentures are not as strong as natural teeth and can break if not handled carefully.

There are disadvantages and advantages to getting dentures as tooth replacements. The ideal way to decide if dentures are right for you is to consult your dentist and explore your options.

Which Is Right For Me?

The choice between dental implants and traditional dentures is not always clear for many people who are missing teeth. However, a few key factors can help you decide which option is right for you.

Here are some things to consider when choosing between dental implants and traditional dentures:

  • The state of your jawbone:
    If you have a healthy jawbone, you will be a good candidate for dental implants. However, dental implants may not be an option if your jawbone is too thin or short.
  • The cost:
    Dental implants are typically more expensive than traditional dentures. Dentures are the smart choice if you’re looking for a more affordable option.
  • The invasiveness of the treatment:
    Dental implants require surgery to place the implant in your jawbone. Traditional dentures can be created without any oral surgery.
  • Your lifestyle:
    If you lead an active lifestyle, dental implants may be a better option for you because they are more securely attached to your mouth than dentures.
  • Your preferences:
    Ultimately, the decision between dental implants and traditional dentures comes down to your personal preferences and needs. Talk to your dentist about which option they think is suited for you.

Final Thoughts

Each year, more and more people are turning to dentures and dental implants to improve their smiles. Both treatments have their benefits and drawbacks, so choosing can be challenging.

You can get dentures, which are removable false teeth, or dental implants, which are long-lasting replacement teeth.

If you’re not sure what treatment is right for you, don’t worry! At Maylands Dental Centre, we can help you figure it out. Book an appointment through our website or call us today, and we’ll be more than happy to answer any of your questions.

Thanks for reading, and we hope to see you soon!

Frequently Asked questions

On average, dental implants cost anywhere from $5,000 to $7,000 per implant. However, several factors can affect the cost of dental implants, including:

  • The number of implants needed: If you are only missing one tooth, you will need one implant. However, you may need multiple implants if you are missing several teeth.
  • The type of implant: There are different types of dental implants available on the market, each with its own price tag.
  • The location of the implant: Implants placed in the front of the mouth tend to be more expensive than those placed in the back.
  • Whether or not you need a bone graft: A bone grafting procedure may be necessary to provide a suitable foundation for dental implants. This additional procedure will add to the overall cost.

The dental implant procedure is a multi-step process performed by a trained oral surgeon. Here is what happens during the dental implant process:

  1. The oral surgeon will develop a treatment plan based on the patient’s needs.
  2. The surgical site will be prepared, and the jaw bone will be exposed through a gum incision.
  3. The implant is placed in the jaw bone, serving as an artificial tooth root. A healing period of several months is required to allow the implant to bond with the bone.
  4. Once the implant has fused with the bone, a small connector piece, called an abutment, is placed on top of the implant.
  5. An artificial or prosthetic tooth, called a dental crown, is placed on top of the abutment.

The dental implant procedure usually takes 3-6 months to complete.

You can help ensure the success of your dental implants by following these tips:

  1. Quit smoking. Smoking increases the risk of implant failure and can delay healing.
  2. Brush and floss daily. Good oral hygiene is essential for maintaining dental implants.
  3. Follow the instructions given to you by your dentist or oral surgeon after the dental implant procedure. It is important to take care of the area where the implant was placed and to avoid putting too much pressure on it during the healing process.
  4. Avoid hard foods. Hard foods can damage dental implants and should be avoided.
  5. See your dentist regularly. Regular dental visits are important for keeping your implants healthy.
  6. Make sure to attend dental appointments. Missing appointments can increase the risk of implant failure or infection.
  7. Follow your treatment plan. Your treatment plan is designed to provide you with a treatment that will satisfy your needs. 
  8. Use caution when choosing dental products. Be sure to select products that are safe for dental implants and that will not cause damage to the implant itself.

To be a candidate for dental implants, several qualifications must be met.

  1. The patient must have healthy gums. If the gums are not healthy, it can lead to complications during the healing process.
  2. The patient must have sufficient jawbone density. If there is not enough bone density, the implant may not be able to fuse properly with the jawbone.
  3. The patient must be committed to good oral hygiene. Dental implants require daily care to stay clean and avoid infection. Patients must be willing to brush and floss regularly and see their dentist for regular checkups.
  4. The patient should be in good overall health. This includes being free from chronic illnesses or conditions that might impede healing, such as diabetes and other autoimmune diseases.
  5. Smokers are not good candidates for dental implants because smoking can delay healing and increase the risk of infection.
  6. The patient should have realistic expectations about the results of dental implants. While implants can provide a natural-looking and feeling result, they are not perfect, and some complications may occur.
  7. The patient should be prepared to commit time and money to dental implants. The procedure can be quite costly, and it often requires multiple visits to the dentist over a period of months.

For these reasons, it is important that patients carefully consider whether or not dental implants are right for them before making a decision.

Maylands Dental Centre
Maylands Dental Centre
Content published on Maylandsdentalcentre.com.au is intended to be used and must be used for informational purposes only. It is very important to do your own analysis before making any decision based on your own personal circumstances. You should take independent medical advice from a professional or independently research and verify any information that you find on our Website and wish to rely upon.

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