Tooth loss does not occur overnight. It starts gradually, although sometimes you may ignore the warning signs. However, if you have one or more missing teeth, there’s no need to fear.
Glenferrie Dental has several dental replacement options for you. You can choose dentures or dental implants.
The debate on whether to go for dentures or dental implants will keep going. The decision depends on what works for you as an individual. Your dentist also has a role to play in the decision.
In this article, we will discuss dental implants and dentures. This discussion is to aid you in making good tooth replacement options for your oral health.
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are screws that are surgically embedded into the jaw bone. They serve as a tooth replacement option for missing teeth.
Your dental surgeon can use either an endosteal or a subperiosteal dental implant. The endosteal dental implant is embedded in the jaw bone while a subperiosteal goes on top of the jaw bone. The subperiosteal is most efficient if you don’t have height in your jaw bone.
The dental implant maintains the health of your jawbone. It also stimulates your jawbone’s growth.
Pros of Dental Implants
The biggest advantages of dental implants are that they are permanent and look exactly like your natural teeth. It is almost impossible for someone to identify them as false teeth by just looking at them. Other advantages include:
- Dental implants do not need to be taken out and cleaned every night.
- Dental implants can last for decades. They have a 98% success rate and are the most effective teeth replacement option in modern dentistry.
- They mimic your natural teeth. Their design is formed from the size and shape of the tooth they are replacing.
- Compared to other forms of restorative dentistry that need replacement every few years, the cost of dental implants is less.
- They strengthen the jawbone thereby preventing bone loss.
Cons of Dental Implants
- The dental implant procedure can be lengthy. It can take several months for the procedure to get completed. However, you can still have same-day implants.
- The upfront cost of dental implants is expensive. Though, the price is worth the natural feel and confidence you will experience.
- There is a possibility of dental implant failure. The failure can result from gum disease, insufficient jawbone, and other medical conditions.
- Dental implants are only fit for people with enough jawbones.
What Are Dentures?
Dentures are removable tooth replacement options for replacing lost or missing teeth. They are artificial teeth or gums your dentist creates to replace your lost natural teeth.
Dentures can either be complete or partial. Complete dentures replace all the teeth in the lower or upper jaw. But partial dentures replace a few that are missing.
Dentures are designed to match your existing teeth. Previously, dentures were made out of porcelain or plastic. However, in modern dentistry, dentures are now made out of hard resin.
Pros of Dentures
Dentures are a great tooth replacement option because they aid in supporting the structures around the lips and cheeks. Other advantages include:
- Dentures are easy to look after and maintain.
- Dentures provide you with a natural and confident appearance. They improve your smile.
- Unlike other restorative dentistry that requires a healthy gum and strong bone, dentures are the best option if you do not have a healthy gum or strong bone.
Cons of Dentures
- Your dentures will need replacement over time because they are prone to wear.
- Dentures involve several procedures. We will need to remove moulds and decayed teeth before proceeding with the treatment.
- Due to their removable nature, they are prone to making clicking noises or becoming loose. If you are not careful, they may fall off while speaking or chewing.
Dental Implant Vs. Dentures: Procedure
Dental Implants
A dental implant procedure may involve several dental specialists, such as an oral surgeon and a periodontist.
Your dental specialist first assesses your gums, teeth, and jawbone. The assessment is to determine the health of your jawbone. Your dental specialist also checks for possible gum diseases.
If your jawbone is thin or soft, your dental specialist may perform a bone graft. Local anaesthesia is then used to numb the pain.
Your oral surgeon makes a cut in your gum and drills holes into the jaw bone. Then, a dental implant is inserted into the hole. After the dental implant placement, osseointegration occurs within two to six months.
During osseointegration, the implant combines with the bone. Then, an abutment is placed to connect the replacement tooth to the implant, which will take several weeks. Once healed, your dentist makes an impression of your teeth, which is placed in your mouth.
Dentures Procedure
The procedure for dentures is quite different. Your dental technician first takes you through a dental examination to determine the state of your oral health.
Your dentist searches for infection signs, tooth decay, or any tooth that requires removal before the dentures.
After the dental examination, the dentist takes an impression or mould of your teeth. They send the mould to the dental lab to build specifications based on it. Once done, your dental technician fits the dentures inside your mouth.
Dental Implant Vs Dentures: Treatment Length
Denture treatment could take between six weeks and three months. This length depends on factors such as a complete or partial denture, healing time, and the need for tooth extraction.
The entire dental implant procedure could take two to six months because of its lengthy nature.
Dental Implant Vs Dentures: Cost
Each implant could cost around $2000-$3000. Alongside other charges, a dental implant cost Melbourne $6000 per tooth.
Dentures cost between $700 and $3000. The cost varies depending on whether the dentures are complete or partial, as well as the denture component (plastic or resin).
Dental Implant Vs Dentures: Maintenance
Dental Implants Maintenance
- Practice good oral hygiene.
- Brush your teeth at least twice a day. Then, floss frequently as it helps remove plaques and tartar.
- Use an oral rinse after brushing and flossing. Your mouthwash prevents bad breath and kills off bacteria that linger in your mouth.
- Ensure a proper calcium intake.
- Visit your dentist regularly for routine check-ups.
Dentures Maintenance
- Remove and rinse your dentures after eating.
- Always clean your mouth after removing your dentures.
- Soak your dentures overnight. Follow your dentist\’s prescription on how to soak your dentures.
- Rinse your dentures properly before putting them back in your mouth.
- Brush your dentures at least once a day.
- Make regular visits to your dentist a priority.
Dental Implants Vs. Dentures: Which Is Right For You?
Dentures are a great option if you have a weak jaw. They are also excellent if you wish to have a tooth replacement that you can remove at will. However, a downside to dentures is that they can slip while chewing or talking.
Although dental implants cost more than dentures, they are permanent tooth replacements and more naturalistic. Implants are firmly fitted into your jawbone, so there is no worry of them slipping out.
If you are still in doubt about the proper decision to take, consult us. We can help explain the two methods in detail for your understanding.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Are Implants Better Than Permanent Dentures?
Dental implants are the best tooth replacement option because of their permanency.
2. Are Permanent Dentures Cheaper Than Implants?
Permanent dentures are cheaper than dental implants.
3. What Are The Advantages Of Implants Over Dentures?
Dental implants are more convenient than dentures. They provide better stability than dentures and also prevent bone loss.
4. Why Do Dentists Not Recommend Dentures?
Dentists do not recommend dentures because of periodontal disease resulting in bone loss.
5. How Much Does It Cost To Replace All Of Your Teeth?
A full mouth implant could cost about $34,000.
6. How Much Is A Full Set Of Dental Implants?
A full mouth implant could cost about $34,000
7. Can Regular Dentures Be Permanently Attached?
Yes, regular dentures can be permanently attached.