Medically Reviewed by Esteem Dental And Orthodontic Team on July 17, 2024
When it comes to restoring your smile, two common options are dentures and dental implants. Both have their unique benefits and can significantly enhance your quality of life. This guide will help you understand the differences between dental implants and dentures, so you can make an informed decision.
Each option has a few key distinctions, advantages, and considerations, helping you choose the best solution for your needs and lifestyle. The suitability of implants depends on factors such as oral health and bone structure. Our team at Esteem Dental can help you determine which dental procedures and treatments will likely be best for you. Whether you need dentures, dental implants, or another treatment entirely, we’re prepared to help.
What Are Dentures?
Commonly called false teeth, dentures are removable prosthetics used to replace a missing tooth or a few missing teeth, as well as multiple or all teeth in a patient’s mouth. Full and partial dentures are used based on the patient’s circumstances: complete dentures are used when all teeth are missing in either the upper or lower jaw, while partial dentures are designed for patients with some remaining teeth to fill in the gaps caused by missing teeth.
Dentures are removable and can be made from many different materials. Traditional removable dentures are typically made from acrylic or metal, while other options include nylon, resin, or porcelain, depending on the specific needs and lifestyle of the patient.
Dentures allow patients to speak, eat, and otherwise function more efficiently, and they are made to fit over a person’s gums for a more seamless appearance. Many denture wearers need some time to adjust to the fit of a new set. Dentures are a non-surgical option for tooth replacement and are long-lasting, as patients can keep a durable set for seven to ten years before replacing them.
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are a surgical procedure in which an artificial tooth root is placed into the jawbone to replace a missing tooth. This oral surgery is performed under local anesthesia to ensure patient comfort. The implant is then topped with a dental crown, which may need replacement every 10 to 15 years due to normal wear. The prosthetic tooth is designed to mimic a real tooth, providing a natural appearance and restoring oral function.
Dental implants can be used to replace a single tooth or multiple teeth. Implant-supported prosthetic teeth help maintain facial structure and preserve bone density by stimulating bone growth in the jaw. The success of dental implants depends heavily on jawbone density; if bone volume is insufficient, bone grafting may be required before the implant can be placed.
Dental implants are generally considered a more permanent solution compared to other tooth replacement options, and they support replacement teeth that feel and function like natural teeth. It is important to note that dental implants require oral surgery and are not suitable for everyone. Suitability depends on existing teeth, bone health, and other individual factors. Implant screws are typically made of titanium, though other options such as zirconia are available for patients with specific metal allergies.
Dental implants can also be used to replace an entire row of teeth. These full-arch options are supported by a handful of screws implanted in the jaw, rather than each individual tooth having its own screw, which lowers the impact of healing when replacing multiple teeth at once.
Comparison Between Dentures and Implants
If cost is a significant concern for you, it helps to know the typical cost differences between dentures and implants. An implant for an individual tooth typically costs around $1,600, and a full set of upper or lower jaw dentures often costs a similar amount. One of dentures’ main advantages is that they are a non-invasive tooth replacement option and do not require surgery, while implants require a handful of office visits and a healing period.
Dentures are also more likely to be readily available than implants, and they can be removed throughout the day for any reason, which simplifies cleaning. Many patients start with a removable denture and later transition to dental implants for improved comfort and function. Implants tend to feel more secure for patients whose dentures do not stay in place as well as they would like, and their advantages include greater stability, prevention of bone loss, and long-term oral health benefits.
Choosing the right tooth replacement option depends on whether you need to replace one or more teeth, as well as your budget and health needs.
Hygiene and Maintenance
Maintaining excellent hygiene and proper care is essential for the long-term success of both dentures and dental implants. Whether you’re a denture wearer or have chosen dental implants, a consistent cleaning routine will help protect your oral health and keep your new teeth looking and feeling their best.
For those with dentures, daily removal and thorough cleaning are key. Removable dentures should be gently brushed with a soft-bristle toothbrush and mild soap to remove food particles and plaque. Soaking your denture in a cleaning solution overnight helps keep it fresh and prevents bacteria buildup. It is equally important to clean your gums and any remaining natural teeth to reduce the risk of gum disease and ensure your dentures continue to fit comfortably.
Dental implants, including implant-supported dentures, require care similar to natural teeth. Brushing twice a day with a soft-bristle toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste, along with daily flossing, helps remove plaque and maintain healthy surrounding teeth and gums. A water flosser or interdental brush can help clean around implants and reach areas that are difficult to access with regular brushing. Regular dental check-ups are crucial to monitor implant health and catch any early signs of bone loss or gum disease.
By following a dedicated hygiene routine and visiting your dentist regularly, you can extend the life of your dentures or dental implants and enjoy a healthy, confident smile for years to come.
Contact Esteem Dental to Schedule a Consultation With Our Talented Team
At Esteem Dental, we understand the importance of making an informed decision about your dental health. Our compassionate and experienced team is here to guide you through the process, whether you’re considering dentures, dental implants, or another treatment. We take pride in offering personalized care tailored to your unique needs and lifestyle.
Our state-of-the-art facility in Lake Nona, FL, ensures you receive quality dental care in a comfortable and welcoming environment. Schedule a consultation with us today by completing a contact form.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dentures and Dental Implants
How do I know if I’m a good candidate for dental implants?
Candidacy depends mainly on jawbone density and overall gum health. A consultation with imaging lets our team confirm whether you have enough bone to support an implant or whether bone grafting would be needed first.
Can dentures be converted to implants later?
Many patients who start with dentures do transition to implants later, often to gain more stability and function. Your dentist can evaluate whether your jawbone can support implants at that point.
Which option is more affordable long-term, dentures or implants?
Dentures typically cost less upfront, but implants can be more economical over a lifetime since they do not need periodic relining or full replacement the way dentures often do. The right choice depends on your budget and long-term goals.
How long is the recovery after implant surgery?
Initial healing after implant placement typically takes about one to two weeks, while full integration with the jawbone can take a few months before the final crown is attached.
Can I get both dentures and implants together?
Yes, implant-supported dentures combine both approaches by anchoring a removable or fixed denture to a small number of implants, offering more stability than traditional dentures alone.
Dr. Jordan Jones, DDS
Dr. Jordan Jones leads the experienced team at Esteem Dental, providing comprehensive family dental care to the Winter Garden and Lake Nona communities. With a focus on general dentistry, pediatric care, and orthodontics, Dr. Jones combines advanced techniques with a compassionate approach to ensure every patient receives personalized, quality treatment in a comfortable environment.
✓ Medically Reviewed
