Missing or damaged teeth can have a significant impact on your daily life. They can make it difficult to speak clearly, eat certain foods, and even affect your self-confidence. If you are facing this issue, you may be wondering what your options are to restore your smile. Two popular choices are dental implants or dentures. However, choosing between these two can be a daunting task, as both options have their own set of advantages and disadvantages, making it challenging to determine which one is right for you.
To help you make an informed decision, we will explore the differences between dental implants and dentures, as well as their pros and cons. We will also discuss what you can expect during the procedure, post-treatment care, and how to maintain your new smile. Whether you are missing one tooth or several, our goal is to provide you with the information you need to make the best decision for you and your dental needs.
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are artificial tooth roots made of titanium that are surgically placed into the jawbone to support a dental prosthesis, such as a crown, bridge, or denture. The implant itself is a small, screw-shaped post that fuses with the bone in a process called osseointegration. Once the implant has fully integrated with the bone, a dental prosthesis can be attached to it to create a natural-looking and functional replacement tooth. Dental implants are a popular option for those looking for a long-lasting and durable solution to missing teeth, as they can last for many years with proper care and maintenance.
What are Dentures?
Dentures are removable dental prostheses that are custom-made to fit your mouth. They can replace a few missing teeth or an entire arch of teeth. Dentures are typically made of acrylic resin, and they rely on suction and retention to stay in place. While they are not as durable or long-lasting as dental implants, they are a more affordable option for those looking to replace missing teeth. Dentures can be removed for cleaning and maintenance, making them a convenient choice for some patients.
Dental Implants or Dentures: The Procedure
Missing or damaged teeth can make it difficult to speak, eat, and feel confident in your smile. If you’re considering restoring your teeth, you may be wondering whether dental implants or dentures are the right choice for you. Both options have their own advantages and disadvantages, so it’s important to understand the differences to make an informed decision. One thing you will want to think about when deciding whether you should have dental implants or dentures is the procedure.
Implants
The dental implant procedure typically involves multiple appointments over the course of several months. During the first appointment, the dentist will assess your oral health and determine whether you are a good candidate for dental implants. If you are, the next step is to surgically place the implant into your jawbone. After this, you will need to allow time for the implant to fuse with the bone in a process called osseointegration. This can take several months. Once the implant has fully integrated, the dentist will place an abutment on top of the implant, which will hold the dental prosthesis in place. Finally, a custom-made dental prosthesis, such as a crown, bridge, or denture, will be attached to the abutment to create a natural-looking and functional replacement tooth.
Dentures
Dentures are typically created over the course of several appointments with a dentist, during which time impressions of your mouth will be taken to create a custom mold. Once the mold is created, the dentist will create a wax model of the dentures for you to try on and make any necessary adjustments. Once the final dentures are created, they will be fitted to your mouth for a comfortable and secure fit. While the procedure for getting dentures is less invasive than that of dental implants, they do require regular adjustments and maintenance to ensure a proper fit and function.
Dental Implants or Dentures: The Cost
Another factor that you want to think about when it comes to determining whether you should get dental implants or dentures is the cost.
Implants
Dental implants can be more expensive than dentures due to the surgical procedure and the materials used. However, they are often considered a worthwhile investment because of their durability and long-term functionality. The cost of dental implants can vary depending on factors such as the number of implants needed, the location of the dental practice, and any additional procedures that may be required.
Dentures
Dentures are typically a more affordable option compared to dental implants. The cost of dentures can vary depending on factors such as the materials used, the number of teeth being replaced, and the complexity of the procedure. However, they may need to be replaced or adjusted more frequently than dental implants, which can increase the long-term cost. It’s important to discuss the cost of dentures with your dentist to determine whether they are a viable option for you.
Dental Implants or Dentures: Maintenance
Something you will want to consider when choosing between dental implants is the maintenance that is involved.
Implants
After getting dental implants, it is important to maintain good oral hygiene to ensure their longevity. This includes brushing and flossing regularly, as well as attending regular dental check-ups to monitor the health of the implants and surrounding teeth and gums. Additionally, avoiding hard or sticky foods can help prevent damage to the implants. If proper care is taken, dental implants can last for many years, making them a long-lasting and durable solution for missing teeth.
Dentures
Just like with dental implants, after getting dentures, you have to maintain good oral hygiene in order to ensure their longevity and to prevent oral health issues. This includes brushing and flossing the remaining teeth and gums, as well as cleaning the dentures regularly to remove food particles and bacteria. Dentures should be soaked in a denture-cleaning solution overnight to keep them clean and fresh. It’s important to have the dentures checked and adjusted by a dentist regularly to ensure a proper fit and to prevent any discomfort or irritation. With proper care and maintenance, dentures can provide a functional and affordable solution for missing teeth.
Factors to Consider When Deciding Between Dental Implants or Dentures
Now that you have been able to compare dental implants and dentures there are a few factors to consider when deciding which one is right for you.
Bone Density
Bone density is an important factor to consider when deciding between dental implants or dentures. Dental implants require a certain amount of healthy bone in the jaw to be successful, as the implant is surgically placed into the bone and relies on osseointegration to fuse with the bone. If a patient does not have enough bone density, they may require additional procedures, such as bone grafting, to build up the bone before the implant can be placed. On the other hand, dentures do not require a strong jawbone for support, as they rely on suction and retention to stay in place. If a patient has issues with bone density, dentures may be a more viable option for them. It is important to discuss your bone density with a dental professional to determine which option is right for you.
Age
Age is another factor to consider when deciding between dental implants or dentures. Dental implants are generally recommended for patients who have fully developed jawbones, which occurs around the age of 18 for most people. However, dentures can be a good option for patients of all ages.
Hygiene
Maintaining good oral hygiene is important for both dental implants and dentures. However, dental implants require more extensive care than dentures. It’s important to brush and floss around the implant and abutment regularly to prevent gum disease and other oral health issues. Dentures also require regular cleaning and maintenance to prevent bacteria buildup and to ensure a proper fit. It’s important to discuss your oral hygiene habits with a dentist to determine which option is best for you.
Function and Feel
When deciding between dental implants or dentures, it’s important to consider how they will feel and function in your mouth. Dental implants are designed to look and feel like natural teeth, allowing for normal eating and speaking. They are also more stable and secure than dentures, which can slip or move around in the mouth. However, dental implants can require an adjustment period and may feel different than natural teeth at first. Dentures can also take some getting used to, but they are generally more comfortable and convenient for some patients.
Let Ideal Dental Help!
If you are still unsure whether dental implants or dentures are right for you, the team at Ideal Dental Solutions can help. We offer a variety of restorative dental services to help you achieve a healthy, functional, and beautiful smile. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about your options.
