How To Choose Between Dental Implants and Dentures

Missing or lost teeth can lead to irritation and difficulty in eating or speaking. Choosing a solution for missing teeth can be overwhelming because you have to consider many points before selection. The treatment options for missing teeth are dental implants and dentures. Both are feasible and commonly used procedures. Here we will discuss both procedures with their benefits. 

What are Dental Implants

A dental implant is a prosthetic tooth root made of titanium that’s placed in your jaw to later support a crown. Implants are a durable solution that mimics natural teeth, offering stability and preventing bone loss. 

For a long-term option, dental implants are perfect as they are a surgical procedure. Titanium is directly inserted into the jawbone and serves as a substitute for the tooth root. This post is topped with an abutment and a dental crown, which serves as the visible part of the replacement tooth.

Benefits of Implants

Here are the benefits of dental implants:

• Lasts for 15-20 years or even longer with proper care
• Maintenance is easy.
• No chance of slipping, they don’t shift or move like dentures.
• Prevents jawbone deterioration by stimulating the bone, helping to maintain bone density and prevent further bone loss.
• Stable as they are anchored into the jawbone.
• Looks and feels like natural teeth.

What are Dentures

Dentures are false teeth that are used to replace a missing tooth. They are typically made of porcelain or acrylic and are supported by the gums. There are two types of dentures: full, which cover all teeth in the upper and lower jaw, or partial, which are for one or more teeth.

Handling new dentures is difficult sometimes. You can start by wearing them for a few hours at a time, gradually increasing the duration. Also, eat soft foods and chew on both sides of your mouth, cutting food into small pieces to avoid putting pressure on the front teeth.

Benefits of Dentures

The following are the advantages of having dentures:

• Dentures are typically more affordable than dental implants.
• You can replace the full jaw or a partial.
• Looks like real teeth.
• Non-invasive option, dentures do not require surgery, making them best for those who don’t want surgery.
• Easy to clean and maintain.
• Dentures can be fitted fast, making them a good option for patients seeking a quicker solution.

Factors to Consider Before Choosing

Before considering the procedure, the following factors are important to consider:

Age: Dental implants are a long-term solution, so it is preferred by young people who want a permanent solution. Older people mostly go for dentures because they are easy to maintain.

Process: Implants are a surgical procedure, so it is not preferred by older people and those who are afraid of surgery. Dentures are a non-invasive procedure, making them perfect for those who don’t want surgery.

Time: Implants require time to settle; dentures have a quick turnaround, which is why most people choose dentures.

Bone density: Implants require a certain amount of jawbone material to support the posts. If you have lost bone material, you may not be a good candidate for implants.

Functionality: For better chewing and a natural feel, dental implants are preferred. 

Hygiene: Hygiene is very important, so if you are unable to take care of it properly, dental implants would be best because they require less maintenance.

Budget: If you want affordable treatment, dentures are for you. Dental implants are an expensive treatment.