Dentures Vs Implants

Dentures and dental implants both serve the same purpose. Both assist you in chewing foods that you might not be able to eat otherwise, help the facial muscles, improve your speech, boost your self-esteem and reduce self-consciousness by restoring your smile. There are, however, significant differences between the two dental solutions.

In this article, we will briefly compare the two to give you an idea of how they differ.

The Difference in Procedure

For dental implants, you need enough bone so that the implant can be screwed into it. The dentist will first remove the damaged root and then drill a hole into the jawbone. The implant post or fixture goes into this hole. The doctor will wait a couple of months so that the bone grows around the fixture and then place an abutment over it. In the final step, the crown goes over the abutment. The dental implant is permanent.

On the other hand, dentures are removable prosthetic teeth. They can work even without much bone. Patients can either have a full set or replace only a few teeth with partial dentures. Before getting dentures for the first time, you may need tooth extractions.

Your dentist will take measurements and impressions to create your traditional dentures in the lab. While these are in the making, you will receive a temporary set called immediate dentures. Dentures mimic natural teeth and are placed with a special adhesive bonding them to the gums.

Cost of Denture vs Implants

The cost of dentures depends on your region and the type of dentures you select. Dentures can be purchased at a low cost, although quality varies with price. High-quality restorations use materials and techniques that resemble the natural appearance of teeth and gums. They often have guarantees and are stronger and more resilient than other materials.

Even though implants are typically more costly than dentures, the cost will differ according to your location, your oral health, the type of implant you choose, the diagnostic tests required (x-rays, CT scan, etc.), and whether additional procedures like a bone transplant or sinus lift are required. Dental implants cost more than dentures as well as other treatments like dental bridges.

According to the American Dental Association (ADA), dental implants can cost between $1,600 and $2,200 for a single tooth.

The ADA states that the average cost of dentures in a complete set for the upper jaw is just over $1,600. A complete set for the lower jaw will cost around the same.

The Difference in Maintenance

Dental implants are cared for in the same way that natural teeth are. This includes brushing with a soft-bristle brush at least twice a day, flossing, and having regular dental check-ups.

On the other hand, dentures require significant daily maintenance to remain viable in the long term. For example, patients should not wear them at night and instead, soak them in water or a special cleaning solution. To keep them clean, patients need to remove them after eating and brush them. This has to be done daily. They may also need to brush away any adhesive that has remained on your gums.

Dentures will need refitting from time to time because the bite changes. Dental implants, on the other hand, are permanent fixtures that may necessitate replacement crowns if the original crowns crack or break.

Pros and Cons of Denture vs Implants

Pros of Denture

They are frequently the most cost-effective option because they are less expensive than implants.
In contrast to implants, dentures can be trial-tested.
Following a surgical tooth extraction, they provide your mouth time to recuperate.
There is no surgery involved in the process of making dentures.
They are easily repairable or modifiable after any injury.

Cons of Dentures

Implants appear more natural than dentures.
They need thorough, regular maintenance, which requires additional cleaning product expenses.
You cannot leave your dentures on all night. Denture care is very important.
Discomfort in speaking and eating due to loose dentures.
Gum disease is more likely when wearing them.
Dentures frequently need to be replaced every three to six years.
Some dentures tend to erode the remaining natural teeth.

Pros of Dental Implants

It only takes routine brushing and flossing, just like you would for your natural teeth, to preserve and care for implants.
Implants resemble your natural teeth a lot.
With this treatment, there are no limitations on the kinds of foods you can eat.
As opposed to dentures, implants will not impair speech.
Since the treatment replaces the tooth’s root and tooth, they don’t impact nearby teeth and retain the overall health of the bone.
Future dental operations are less likely with implants.

Cons of Dental Implants

Getting this treatment is expensive.
It will be necessary to perform one or more surgical procedures on implants.

The Bottom Line

Only your dentist can provide a professional opinion on what treatment is best for your specific oral needs: dental implants or dentures. You should visit your dentist, who will evaluate your oral condition to determine the ideal treatment.

Dental Specialist in Seattle

Sue Vetter’s dental care offers affordable dental care in Seattle. To learn more about the treatment and our service, book your appointment, please call or visit us.

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