Dentures vs. Implants: Which one is better?

Dentures or implants are the best alternatives to replace one or more missing teeth. With this dental treatment, you can not only restore the mouth’s function but improve your smile too. However, choosing the right solution is crucial. It depends on several factors, including your preference, price, and the health of your jawbone and teeth. Dentures or implants both have their benefits and drawbacks. Hence, it is essential to discuss your options and preferences in detail with your dentist.

If you are wondering to choose dental implants or dentures, we have got you covered. Here we are explaining the essential information about dentures vs. implants so that you can select the best one for you.

In general, dentures and implants eventually serve the same purposes. more specifically they;

  • help to chew foods
  • support facial muscles
  • improve your speech
  • increase self-confidence by giving you a beautiful smile.
  • Nevertheless, there are also striking variations between the two dental solutions; dentures or dental implant treatment.

Procedure for dentures vs. implants

Implants

Implants require enough bone to place screw-like implants capped with crowns. Generally, a dental implant is performed by first removing a damaged root. Then the hole is drilled into the jawbone to fix implants. Next, a metal prosthetic root (post) is rooted deep into the bone. But, the crown is not fixed on the top of the post until the bone has started to grow around the implant. It can take up to a couple of months until it is ready to accept an abutment. Finally, an artificial tooth made to match surrounding teeth (crown) is attached to the abutment.

Implants require enough bone to place screw-like implants capped with crowns. Generally, a dental implant is performed by first removing a damaged root. Then the hole is drilled into the jawbone to fix implants. Next, a metal prosthetic root (post) is rooted deep into the bone. But, the crown is not fixed on the top of the post until the bone has started to grow around the implant. It can take up to a couple of months until it is ready to accept an abutment. Finally, an artificial tooth made to match surrounding teeth (crown) is attached to the abutment.

Additionally, have a look at the benefits and drawbacks of dental implants;

Benefits of Dental Implants
  • Dental implants have a higher success rate once they are fixed in the mouth.
  • Implants are generally long-lasting, and they may last up for 20 years or more.
  • They are as easy to care for as regular teeth.
  • Implants protect the structure of your facial structure and jawbones.
  • Implants enable the bone to continue to grow just like your regular teeth.
  • Possibly, you can get dental implants in a single day (however, the procedure will require follow-ups).
  • Drawbacks of Dental Implants
  • Dental implants are costlier than dentures.
  • Not everybody is an ideal candidate for dental implants. Implants need healthy bones and gums for a successful procedure.
Dentures

Dentures are detachable prosthetic teeth. It can be easily removed and placed easily. Dentures can be fitted in the mouth regardless of how much bone is present. You can have a complete or partial denture, as per the requirement. But, first, they are made by the impression of the upper or lower gums or both if dentures are required to replace all of the teeth.

Your dentist will also study your bite and the alignment before making the dentures. Once A preliminary set of dentures is ready, it will be placed in your mouth before preparing a final set of dentures. Typically, dentures are made to look like natural teeth.

More specifically, have a look at the pros and cons of dentures.

Pros of Dentures
  • Dentures are less expensive compared to implants.
  • Dentures can be placed in for the patients who have bone and gum loss
  • The denture fitting process is non-invasive.
  • Getting a denture is a quick process that usually requires only 3-4 visits.
Cons of Dentures
  • As the structure of the face and gums change with ageing, replacement of the denture may be required later.
  • Most people will take time to get used to the dentures. Initially, one may experience increased salivation, difficulty in chewing, difficulty speaking, and so on.
  • Just like our regular teeth, dentures will highly require daily care. Infection around the mouth and gums or dental problems can occur if your dentures are not properly cared for.

But do you need dental implants or dentures?

When you have missing teeth, you should have dentures or implants. Missing teeth can harm your health gradually if not fixed on time. When gums are exposed due to missing teeth, the food and bacteria can quickly get stuck in them. Consequently, infection or inflammation can occur and alter your oral health. Plus, the missing teeth can affect the structure of your jaw, and tooth shifts may take place, creating a domino effect. Briefly, if you do not replace missing teeth on time, you may face dental issues.

Thus, it is imperative to have dentures or implants to replace the missing teeth. Select the best alternative for your and face artificial teeth to keep your oral health intact.

Trucare Dentistry offers the best dental treatment for all types of dental issues. Whether you need to get complete partial dentures or dental implant treatment, we can help. We have experienced, certified professionals to provide you the optimal dental care for your dental problems. Schedule an appointment with us now and maintain your oral health in good shape.