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Updated: February 26, 2025
Choosing between dental implants and dentures requires careful thought, as your decision will impact your confidence, comfort, and ability to live life to the fullest. Every bite you take, every word you speak, and every smile that crosses your face hinges on the solution you choose.
Should you opt for the permanence and natural feel of dental implants, or does the flexibility and affordability of dentures better suit your needs?
The truth is that there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Let’s explore the pros and cons of each to help you make an informed decision that fits your vision for a healthier, happier smile.
Dental implants are artificial tooth roots made of titanium that are surgically placed into the jawbone.
The procedure involves three main steps: placing the implant into the bone, allowing time for the implant to fuse with the bone (osseointegration), and attaching a crown or restoration to the implant. The process usually takes several months to complete.
After the procedure, proper maintenance is essential to ensure the longevity of the implants. This includes regular brushing and flossing, professional cleanings, and avoiding harmful habits like smoking.
Dentures are removable appliances designed to replace missing teeth. There are two main types: complete dentures, which replace all teeth in a row, and partial dentures, which replace only a few missing teeth and are typically anchored to existing natural teeth with metal clasps.
The process of getting dentures involves taking impressions of the patient’s mouth to create a custom fit. The dentures are then crafted in a dental lab to ensure proper alignment and comfort.
After they are fitted, there may be an adjustment period as the patient becomes accustomed to wearing them. Maintenance includes brushing and soaking the dentures daily and storing them properly to prevent damage. Regular checkups ensure they continue to fit well.
Dental implants offer numerous advantages over other tooth replacement options. They are a highly recommended choice for those seeking a permanent and reliable solution. Not only do they enhance the appearance of your smile, but they also improve oral health and function.
Dental implants are designed to mimic the appearance and feel of natural teeth, blending seamlessly with the rest of your smile. The titanium post is securely anchored in the jaw, and the crown placed on top is crafted to match your natural teeth’s shape, size, and color.
Unlike dentures, which may cause discomfort due to movement or irritation, dental implants are anchored securely into the jawbone, eliminating the need for adhesives or concerns about slippage.
This stability ensures a more comfortable, natural-feeling experience, allowing you to eat, speak, and smile with ease.
When a tooth is lost, the jawbone can begin to deteriorate due to the lack of stimulation. Implants restore this function by providing the necessary stimulation to the bone.
This prevents bone loss and helps maintain the structure of your face by preventing the sunken-in look that can occur with missing teeth.
Dental implants offer a long-lasting, permanent solution to tooth loss. With proper care and maintenance, implants can last for decades or even a lifetime.
They are a more cost-effective option in the long run than other treatments, such as dentures or bridges, which may need replacing or repairing over time.
Dental implants have several disadvantages that can impact their suitability for some patients. It’s important to weigh these factors carefully to determine if dental implants are the right choice.
One of the main drawbacks of dental implants is that the procedure involves surgery, which always comes with risks.
For the implant to be successfully anchored in the jawbone, patients must have enough bone density in the area of the missing tooth. If the bone is insufficient, additional procedures such as bone grafting may be necessary, which can extend the treatment time and increase costs.
Dental implants tend to be more expensive than other tooth replacement options and can range from $3,000 to $6,000 per implant. The costs include the surgery, the implant post, the crown, and any additional procedures that might be required.
While implants offer a long-term solution, the initial expense can be a significant barrier for many patients, especially without insurance coverage or financing options.
The process of getting dental implants can take several months to complete. After the implant is placed in the jaw, it requires time to fuse with the bone in a process called osseointegration.
This healing period can range from 3 to 6 months. During this time, patients may need to wear a temporary restoration.
While dental implants are generally low-maintenance, poor oral hygiene can lead to complications such as infection around the implant site.
Just like natural teeth, implants require regular brushing, flossing, and professional cleanings to prevent plaque buildup and inflammation. Failure to maintain proper hygiene can result in peri-implantitis, a condition that can cause implant failure if left untreated.
Dentures have been a trusted solution for replacing missing teeth for many years, offering both functional and aesthetic benefits. They can be a great choice for those seeking a noninvasive, customizable, and affordable option for restoring their smile.
With advances in dental technology, dentures are now available in materials and designs that create a more realistic appearance.
Customization allows for dentures that fit your mouth perfectly and match the color, shape, and size of your natural teeth for an attractive, natural-looking smile.
Unlike dental implants, dentures do not require surgery, making them a less invasive option for tooth replacement. The fitting process involves taking impressions of your mouth and designing dentures that fit comfortably.
This avoids the risks and recovery time associated with surgical procedures, making dentures a preferable option for many people, especially those who may not be candidates for implants due to health or bone density issues.
One of the key advantages of dentures is that they do not rely on the density of the jawbone, unlike dental implants.
Since dentures rest on top of the gums and are held in place by suction or adhesives, they can be an ideal solution for individuals with insufficient bone mass to support implants.
Dentures are typically more affordable than dental implants, with prices ranging from $500 to several thousand dollars. Of course, the total cost depends on the type of dentures you need.
Partial dentures cost less than a full set, but the cost can vary based on the chosen material and whether the partials are removable or fixed in place.
For complete dentures, the price depends on the material used, whether the dentures are basic or premium, and whether they are the standard, removable type or if they are fixed in place with implants.
While dentures offer several benefits, they are not without their drawbacks. For some individuals, the challenges associated with dentures may outweigh the advantages.
Adjusting to dentures can take time, and many patients experience discomfort, difficulty speaking, or trouble eating during the initial period. It may be several weeks or even months before the mouth adapts fully and patients experience comfort and confidence.
Dentures can sometimes slip out of place, particularly if the fit is not perfect. This can cause embarrassment or difficulty speaking and eating. Additionally, dentures may cause irritation or rubbing on the gums, leading to sores or inflammation.
While adhesive pastes can help, they may not provide a secure fit for everyone, and frequent adjustments may be needed to prevent these issues.
Over time, dentures can wear down or lose their fit due to changes in the mouth, such as bone loss or gum shrinkage. As the jawbone changes shape, dentures may become loose and require relining or replacement to ensure they continue to fit comfortably.
Dentures do not prevent jawbone loss, which can occur when the teeth are missing. While dentures restore the appearance of teeth, they do not stimulate the bone in the same way natural teeth or dental implants do.
Over time, this can lead to further bone deterioration, altering the structure of the face and affecting the fit of dentures.
If you’re looking for a permanent, natural-looking solution that mimics the function of real teeth, dental implants may be the best option. They provide unmatched stability, prevent bone loss, and give you the freedom to enjoy life without worrying about your teeth.
On the other hand, dentures can offer a practical and affordable alternative for those who may not be candidates for implants or prefer a less invasive option. They allow you to restore your smile and confidence quickly without the need for surgery.
Whether you opt for the permanence of implants or the flexibility of dentures, both options can dramatically improve your quality of life. The key is to partner with your dentist to assess your needs and determine the best path forward for your smile and well-being.
Forever Dental provides natural-looking solutions for missing teeth, including high-quality dental implants and both traditional and implant-supported dentures. Schedule an appointment today at our Belmont Central dental office to begin your smile restoration.
Is it better to get dentures or implants?
The choice between dentures and implants depends on individual factors such as bone density, budget, and personal preference. Implants offer a more permanent, natural solution, while dentures are more affordable and less invasive but may require more upkeep.
Why do dentists discourage dentures?
Dentists may discourage dentures due to the risk of discomfort, difficulty with chewing, and potential bone loss. They also require regular adjustments and maintenance, which can lead to long-term oral health challenges.
Why would a dentist not recommend an implant?
A dentist may not recommend implants if the patient lacks sufficient bone density, has certain health conditions, or cannot undergo surgery. Additionally, implants are often not advised for younger patients whose jaws are still developing.
What is the downside of having dental implants?
While dental implants offer long-term benefits, they require surgery, can be costly, and may take several months for full placement. Poor oral hygiene can also lead to infections, and implants may not be suitable for patients with insufficient bone density.
