When it comes to replacing missing teeth, the dental implants vs dentures debate comes up more often than you think. At Ashgrove Dental, we get asked this question all the time.
Before we go any further, let us assure you that it’s completely normal to feel this way. It’s a big decision. So it’s only right that you weigh all your options and learn everything you can about it, including the pros and cons.
This guide will give you everything you need to know about choosing between the two.
What are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are one of the most popular tooth replacement solutions available. They are titanium posts, which are inserted into your jawbone in a surgical procedure. Once inserted, they are left to integrate with the bone in a process called osseointegration. Following this, they act as artificial tooth roots, providing a sturdy foundation for your new teeth and the stimulation your jawbone requires.
Types of Dental Implants
Dental implants are of several types:
- Single Dental Implants: To replace a single tooth.
- Implant Bridges: Used to replace multiple teeth in a row.
- Implant-Supported Dentures: Snap-in dentures that serve as a solution if you don’t have many natural teeth.
- All-On-4 Dental Implants: A fixed solution that restores an entire arch of teeth using just 4 implants.
Benefits of Dental Implants
- Natural Look and Feel: If you are tired of hiding your smile in photos, dental implants will put a stop to that. Designed to look and feel just like your natural teeth, nobody will even know the difference.
- Long-Lasting: Sick of visiting the dentist to replace or adjust dental work? With proper care and regular check-ups (every 6 months), your implants can potentially last a lifetime.
- Prevents Bone Loss: By stimulating the jawbone (just like your natural teeth), dental implants help prevent bone loss, keeping your facial structure intact.
- Restores Functionality: With implants you can eat, chew and speak without any restrictions or worry. This is owing to the stability it provides.
- Doesn’t Affect Surrounding Teeth: Since implants don’t rely on surrounding teeth for any support, your natural teeth remain healthy and untouched.
Disadvantages of Dental Implants
- Requires Multiple Visits: Getting implants requires multiple dental visits over an extended period of time.
- More Costly: In comparison to other tooth replacement solutions, dental implants may cost you more upfront.
- Requires Dental Surgery: Since the implant post has to be inserted into your jawbone to provide a stable base, this procedure requires dental surgery under anaesthesia.
- Requires Adequate Bone Density: Having adequate bone density is a prerequisite for implants. If you don’t have enough bone, you may have to get a bone graft.
Truth be told, these aren’t exactly disadvantages. Although they may seem so at the time of treatment, like the higher price point and longer treatment times, they are worth it in the long run.
What are Dentures?
Dentures are another go-to tooth replacement solution that’s been around for ages. Also known as false teeth, they are a removable option designed to fit snugly over your gums. The denture fitting process is not as complex and lengthy as the dental implant procedure.
Typically made from acrylic resin and metal components, dentures are of two types.
Types of Dentures
- Full Dentures: Used to replace all missing teeth in your lower or upper arches. Your dentist may sometimes remove the few remaining teeth you have before treatment begins.
- Partial Dentures: Replaces the gap left by several missing teeth by bridging it and giving you a complete smile.
Benefits of Dentures
- Improves Appearance: Personalised to look like your natural teeth and improve the appearance of your smile.
- Non-Invasive: Dentures don’t require surgery, making them a non-invasive option.
- Improves Functionality: By restoring your missing teeth, dentures restore your ability to speak clearly and assist in chewing and digestion.
- Improves Oral Health: Missing teeth increases your chances of developing dental issues like tooth decay and gum disease. Dentures help reduce this risk by replacing your teeth and improving your oral health.
- Customisable: Dentures are created to fit your mouth snugly and sit comfortably. Your preferences and factors like the shape, size and colour of your teeth will also be taken into account.
Disadvantages of Dentures
- Discomfort: New dentures can feel uncomfortable and cause soreness and irritation. However, this is until your mouth adjusts to having dentures placed.
- Bone Loss: Since dentures don’t stimulate the bone like natural teeth do, they can lead to bone loss over time.
- Difficulty Speaking and Eating: Wearing dentures is something you get used to, and it takes some time. During this period, you may find it challenging to eat certain foods and pronounce some words.
- Requires Replacement: As your jawbone deteriorates with age and lack of stimulation, your dentures will need to be replaced and relined.
- Denture Slipping: Your new dentures may move around in your mouth when eating, laughing or talking until your mouth gets accustomed to them.
While the above is true, it’s also important to mention why dentures cause these issues. The most common reasons include poorly-fitted dentures, improper denture maintenance and hygiene and wearing dentures 24/7.
Which One is Better: Implants or Dentures?
There is no straightforward answer to this question. It depends on certain factors like your requirements, dental needs and eligibility.
Want to learn more about dental implants vs. dentures and get advice on what’s best for you? Schedule a consultation with us at Ashgrove Dental and we’ll help you decide on the best solution for your smile.
