As time passes, we lose things along the way – like our teeth, for example. The longer you go without a tooth, the more you realize how much you rely on your smile. Is it time to consider a replacement option?
If so, you’re left with another question: Which type of tooth replacement option should you choose?
In this post, we’re going to provide a comprehensive overview of two popular teeth replacement options: Dental implants and dentures. We’ll weigh the pros and cons of each so that by the end, you’ll have a clearer idea of which is right for you.
First, let’s briefly explain what each of these replacement options is:
- Dental implants are secured to your mouth with a titanium screw. A dental crown is placed on top of the implant so it looks and feels like a regular tooth. Implants are a permanent way to replace missing teeth.
- Dentures are made of artificial teeth attached to a pink base. They’re designed to fit comfortably against your gums. You attach them directly to your mouth to replace one or more missing teeth. Since dentures are removable, you can take them out as needed.
When you’re comparing dental implants vs. dentures, consider the following:
Who Makes a Good Candidate for Replacement Teeth?
For most people, dentures are a great option for replacing missing teeth. They can be used to replace a single tooth or multiple missing teeth. These removable replacement teeth are designed to fit the precise dimensions of your mouth, allowing you to speak, chew, and smile with ease.
Dental implants are a more permanent replacement option; they prevent the deterioration of your facial structure and bone loss. They also prevent gum tissue from swelling due to an ill-fitting restoration. However, not everyone is a good candidate for dental implants. Those with gum disease or a lack of bone material may not be eligible for dental implants.
The Procedure
To install dentures, your dentist begins by taking an impression of your upper or lower jaw (depending on whether you need partial dentures or complete dentures). Based on these impressions, your Winnipeg dentures will be designed to fit the dimensions of your smile. Complete dentures rest directly on your gum tissue, which is why the size of your dentures is so important. Using a denture adhesive, they’ll be attached to your gums. You can remove your dentures whenever you want to (like when you’re going to sleep).
Dental implants involve a more time-consuming and invasive procedure. Over the course of several months, these permanent teeth replacements are gradually installed in your mouth. First, a metal prosthetic root is inserted into the jaw bone. Once the implant post osseointegrates with your bone, your dentist will attach an abutment. Then, an implant crown is placed on top. This crown is designed to blend seamlessly with your natural teeth for a secure, long-lasting replacement.
The Cost
The most prohibitive factor of dental implants is the cost. There’s no doubt that dental implants are more expensive than dentures, especially if you’re replacing all the teeth in your mouth. Some patients may not have dental insurance coverage for implants, but it depends on your policy; we recommend asking your insurance provider for details.
Complete or full dentures are more affordable. The cost increases depending on how many teeth you’re replacing. Keep in mind that dentures need to be replaced and adjusted every once in a while as your mouth changes shape.
The Recovery Process
With dental implants, your mouth needs time to recover between each oral surgery and to complete the osseointegration process (in which the implant fuses with your jaw bone, which helps preserve bone structure and ensure a secure fit). Before the abutment and crown can be added, the surgery site needs to heal completely. Recovery takes several months.
Unlike implants, the recovery process for getting dentures is relatively quick. It mostly involves getting used to wearing full or partial dentures. Our high-quality dentures are designed to fit comfortably in your mouth. If you develop any sores in your gum tissue or changes in your dental health, contact us! We can adjust your dentures to prevent these issues.
The Durability
One of the downsides of dentures is that they may slip out of place. These removable teeth may shift around in your mouth. It takes a bit of time to get used to wearing upper dentures and lower dentures; you may find it difficult to chew hard or sticky foods without them moving around.
There’s a reason why dental implants are more expensive than dentures: Their performance is a cut above the rest. Implants are an investment in permanent tooth replacement. They look, feel, and perform just like a natural tooth. You’ll never have to worry about your implant falling out while you’re speaking or chewing.
Why You Should Replace Missing Teeth
Do you have a missing tooth? In Canada, 6% of adults have no natural teeth remaining. Our dentures and dental implants are designed to blend in with your existing teeth for a complete, healthy smile. The benefits of a replacement tooth include:
- Prevent changes in your facial structure. When you’re missing multiple teeth, it will accelerate bone loss and cause your facial muscles to deteriorate; this happens due to a lack of stimulation. But with a dental implant (or implant-supported dentures), the upper and lower jaws will receive the stimulation they need to remain healthy.
- Protect your remaining teeth. When you’re missing single or multiple teeth, it leaves gaps in your smile. This causes a natural tooth to shift out of alignment. Preserve your own teeth with dental implants and dentures.
- Eat, speak, and smile comfortably. We rely on our regular teeth for so many things. Without them, we have trouble with daily, essential tasks. Use dentures and implants to restore your smile and your confidence.
Do You Need Dentures or Dental Implants?
If you have a few missing teeth, it may impact your self-esteem, clarity of speech, and ability to eat certain foods. Dental implants and dentures each have pros and cons; it’s best to consult your dentist when deciding which is right for you.
Are you looking for a Henderson dentist? At Affinity Dental, we can replace single teeth or an entire row of teeth. Whether you choose dental implants or denture teeth, we’ll blend the artificial tooth to match your surrounding teeth perfectly. It’s our goal to give you the healthy, bright smile that you deserve.
Want to learn more about dentures and dental implants? Contact our dental office today!