Difference Between Implants and Dentures - your easy guide for missing teeth!

Are you missing teeth and weighing your options between dentures and implants? Dentures are like your favorite cozy sweater. They are comfy, hassle-free, and easy on the wallet. But if you're dreaming of teeth that feel and function like your natural teeth, dental implants might be the better option for you. Imagine chewing, talking and smiling with teeth that shine like the real thing! Let's analyze the difference between implants and dentures in depth, to help you determine which one best suits your needs.

 

Dental Implants vs Dentures: Understanding the Key Differences

Aspect	Dentures	Dental Implants
Material	Crafted from acrylic plastic arches that imitate natural gums	Consist of titanium posts surgically implanted into the jawbone
Prosthetic	Feature prosthetic teeth	Artificial tooth (crown) placed on an abutment extension
Options	Partial dentures to full removable sets	Single Implant, All-on-4, All-on-6
Cost	More budget-friendly than implants	Higher initial cost, may require surgical procedures
Maintenance	Routine maintenance, adjustments, eventual replacement	Regular oral hygiene, periodic check-ups
Stability	Can shift or become loose over time	Firmly anchored in the jawbone, more natural chewing/speaking
Longevity	Typically require replacement every 5-7 years	Can last a lifetime with proper care
Aesthetics and Function	Offer a non-invasive means of restoring smiles and aiding basic oral functions	Closely resembles natural teeth, fit properly, improves aesthetics and oral function

Dentures, a traditional tooth replacement option, are made of acrylic plastic arches with prosthetic teeth. While budget-friendly, they require regular maintenance and eventual replacement. Despite this, they offer a non-invasive way to restore smiles and basic oral functions.

 

Dental implants, on the other hand, closely mimic natural teeth. Surgically implanted titanium posts provide a sturdy base for realistic-looking artificial teeth. They offer enhanced stability and longevity, firmly anchored into the jawbone for natural chewing and speaking. Though they come with a higher initial cost and may require surgery, implants provide a permanent solution resembling natural teeth, improving aesthetics and oral function. With proper care, they can last a lifetime, ensuring confidence in both smile and oral health.

Dentures vs Dental Implants: Pros & Cons
Dentures and implants are two common options to replace missing teeth. The main difference between dentures and dental implants lies in their own set of pros and cons.
 

Aspect	Dentures	Implants
Pros	Less expensive option	Superior stability and functionality
	Non-invasive procedure	Mimics natural teeth closely
	Can replace multiple missing teeth	Prevents bone loss
	Suitable for those with weak jaws or gums	Long-term solution
Cons	May require adjustments or replacements	Higher initial cost
	Can shift or become loose	Surgical procedure required
	Limited chewing ability	Not suitable for everyone (e.g., those with health conditions affecting healing)

Implant vs Denture vs Bridge: factor to consider
1. Cost: Dental insurance coverage is more likely for a dental bridge than for an implant. If both options exceed your budget, discussing alternatives like partial dentures with your dentist may be beneficial. Dentures cost less when compared to a typical dental implant treatment.

 

2. Number of missing teeth: For multiple consecutive missing teeth, a dental bridge is often preferred over implants. The surgical attachment of separate implants for each missing tooth can be costly and impractical.

 

3. Overall health: Dental implants involve surgery, making them unsuitable for individuals with medical conditions that hinder healing, like diabetes or leukemia. The ideal candidates for implants are those in good overall health with a healthy jawbone.

 

4. Time: Dental implant procedures typically span several months, involving initial surgery followed by a healing period before crown placement. In contrast, a dental bridge can be installed in two dental visits over a few weeks. During the implant procedure, an oral surgeon will drill into the jawbone to attach the implant's root. A temporary denture may be provided during the healing phase. Following a healing period of 2 to 6 months, a crown can be added to the implant.

 

Hybrid Dentures vs Implants

A hybrid denture or an implant-supported denture is a combination of traditional dentures dental implants. It enhances the support and strength of traditional dentures by being firmly attached to dental implants. Unlike removable dentures, hybrids are affixed with screws to the implants and cannot be removed without assistance from an implant dentist. This secure attachment provides greater stability and functionality for the wearer.

 

Am I a Good Candidate for Implants?

While dental implants are often the preferred choice, they may not be suitable for everyone. Dental implants require the underlying jawbone to be intact. If you're experiencing bone loss, you might not be an ideal candidate for this treatment. However, there are procedures available to regenerate jawbone, making dental implants still a viable option for consideration. At Rana Dentistry, we understand the importance of personalized care and tailor our treatment plans to suit each patient's unique needs. Our experienced team will assess your oral health and jawbone condition to determine if dental implants are the right choice for you. With our expertise and commitment to excellence, we strive to provide you with the best possible outcome for your dental health.

 

Get a Permanent Solution for Missing Teeth at Rana Dentistry!

When it comes to choosing the right tooth replacement, your dentist plays a crucial role in advising you based on your specific situation. Your decision should consider factors such as your budget, the number of missing teeth, and your overall health. Ready to Explore Your Options? Contact Rana Dentistry today to schedule a consultation and discover which solution aligns best with your needs. Don't let tooth loss hold you back from reclaiming a confident smile!