Should You Choose Dentures Over Implants?

The field of modern dentistry provides two reliable options for tooth replacement which is a combination of dentures and dental implants. The two treatment options are similar because they restore smiles but you should still consider what works best for you. Many features including price, ease and personal way of life may affect your choice of selection. Let us help you through deciding between dentures vs dental implants according to your needs.

See Also: What is Cosmetic Dentistry?

What Are Dentures?

The prosthetic (artificial) teeth known as dentures work as removable devices used to restore lost teeth. You can select dentures either as a full set to replace all missing teeth or as partial dentures to restore one or several missing teeth.

Pros of Dentures:

Affordable compared to implants.
Non-invasive, meaning no surgery is required.
Custom dentures are a faster solution allowing production in almost three weeks.
People who cannot receive dental implants because of their weak jawbones will find dentures as a better solution.

Cons of Dentures:

The product tends to lose its secure fit and comfort with time.
Require regular maintenance and replacements.
People may find it difficult to consume sticky and hard foods while wearing dentures.

What Are Dental Implants?

The dental implant system consists of artificial permanent tooth roots which secures the replacement teeth. A titanium post goes inside the jawbone during surgery while the attached crown provides a look similar to a regular tooth.

Pros of Implants:

The material provides extended use with proper maintenance because it has a better survival rate.
The implant system duplicates the behaviour of natural teeth through proper functioning and original, normal feeling.
Implants function to protect jaw bone health while stopping bone tissue from diminishing.

Cons of Implants:

Higher cost than dentures.
The surgical procedure requires jawbone placement of a titanium post followed by a healing duration of months.
The complete implant process may take numerous months to finalize.

See Also: How to Care For Your Bonded Teeth?

Dentures vs. Implants: Key Comparisons

1. Comfort & Fit

The placement of dentures can lead to shifting teeth as well as develop painful spots.
Implants maintain their permanent position while providing natural dental sensation.

2. Cost

The initial cost of dentures remains affordable but the devices require future replacements.
The higher price of implants leads to durability when compared to other options.

3. Maintenance

People who wear dentures need to clean them every day and sometimes need professional adjustments.
You need to brush your implant teeth together with flossing them in the same way you do with your natural teeth.

4. Durability

Dentures last 5-10 years.
When implanted correctly they will exist for multiple decades.

5. Eating & Speaking

Denture wearers must practice both their speaking skills and face dietary restrictions because of food limitations.
The implant system enables free eating and normal conversation.

Adjustments: Dentures Vs Implants

Getting Used to Dentures

It does take a few weeks to months for the dentures to settle. Some people experience:

Sore spots in the gums.
First, more production of saliva.
Some learning curve to speaking.
You may have some trouble eating hard or sticky foods during the first few days.
The mouth gets used to it after a while, and practice makes the dentures easier to use.

Adapting to Implants

Implants take longer to heal but don’t need much adjustment afterward. It takes several months for the jawbone to fuse with the implant. After they heal, implants work just like regular teeth, and don’t require any major accommodation to your normal life.

See Also: How to Care for your Tooth After Root Canal Treatment? Tips and Advices

Who Should Choose Dentures?

Dentures are the better option when:

You have a gap in your smile and need a fast, affordable way to fill it.
Health reasons ruled out surgery for someone.
You have weak jawbones and can’t support implants.

Who Should Choose Implants?

Implants are ideal if:

You have healthy gums and adequate bone to support the implant.
You can pay for the up-front premium.
Additionally, you’re not looking to deal with slipping dentures.

This may help you decide between dentures vs implants

Lifestyle Considerations

Are You Active?
Athletes or people with active lifestyles might opt for implants, as those won’t budge or fall out during exercise. Dentures are a little more problematic.

Are There Other Alternatives?

If neither seems ideal, here are a few more options:

Implant-Supported Dentures – A hybrid solution that provides stability for fewer implants.
On the other hand, bridges are suitable for filling the space of one or two missing teeth without the need for whole dentures or implants.

Financial Considerations

Insurance Coverage

The majority of dental insurance plans cover some portion of the cost of dentures.
Implants are often deemed cosmetic, and they may not be covered in full.

Long-Term Costs

Dentures are constantly needing replacement every 5-10 years, resulting in regular costs.
Implants have a higher initial investment but less replacements in the future.
Dentures are the less expensive short term option for those on a budget; implants are a better long term investment.

Final Thoughts

Dentures vs dental implants which is the better option? The answer varies based on your budget, lifestyle and how comfortable you are with surgery. Dentures are a quick and cheap fix, while implants are more permanent and feel more who you are.

No matter which option you choose, oral health maintenance is critical. Having regular dental checkups and brushing and flossing at home will keep your replacement teeth in good condition.