Making the Right Choice: Dental Implants vs Dentures
As we age, it's not uncommon to experience tooth loss or damage. This can be due to several factors, such as decay, gum disease, and trauma. Fortunately, there are two popular solutions to missing teeth: dentures and dental implants.
Understanding Dentures and Dental Implants
Dentures are removable prosthetic devices that replace missing teeth and surrounding tissue. They can be made of acrylic, porcelain, or a combination of both.
There are two types of dentures: complete and partial. Complete dentures (also known as a full denture) replace all of the teeth in the upper or lower jaw, while partial dentures replace only some of the teeth.
Dental implants are artificial tooth roots that are surgically implanted into the jawbone. They are made of titanium or other material that fuse with the jawbone, providing a strong foundation for replacement teeth. The prosthetic tooth that attaches to the implant is called the crown.
Dental implants can be used to replace single or multiple missing teeth and can also support dentures.
Comparing Dentures vs Dental Implants
When choosing between dentures and dental implants, there are several factors to consider. These include:
Stability And Comfort
Dental implants are more stable than dentures because they are anchored to the jawbone. This means that they will not slip or move around in your mouth, which can be uncomfortable and embarrassing. Dentures, on the other hand, can become loose over time, causing irritation and discomfort.
Appearance
Dental implants look and feel more like natural teeth than dentures. They are custom-made to match the color and shape of your existing teeth, so they blend in seamlessly with surrounding teeth. Dentures, on the other hand, can look artificial and may not match the color of your natural teeth.
Maintenance
Dental implants require the same level of care as natural teeth, including brushing, flossing, and regular dental checkups. Dentures, on the other hand, require special cleaning solutions and may need to be adjusted or replaced over time.
Cost
The cost of dentures vs implants is a question many patients ask. Dental implants are generally more expensive than dentures. The cost of dental implants can vary depending on the number of teeth being replaced, the type of implant used, and the location of the procedure. Dentures are more affordable but may require more frequent maintenance and replacement.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Dentures
Advantages
- Affordable
- Non-invasive
- Can be easily removed for cleaning
Disadvantages
- Can become loose or slip in the mouth, which can cause irritation or soreness
- Denture adhesives can be messy
- May require frequent maintenance and replacement
Advantages and Disadvantages of Dental Implants
Advantages
- Looks and feels like natural teeth
- Permanent solution to tooth replacement
- Requires the same level of care as natural teeth
Disadvantages
- More expensive than dentures
- Requires a surgical procedure
- Permanently fixed into the mouth, which some patients do not like
Types of Dentures
There are several types of dentures available, including:
- Conventional dentures
- Immediate dentures
- Overdentures
- Implant-supported dentures
Conventional Dentures
Conventional dentures are made after all of the teeth have been removed and the gum tissue has healed. They are typically ready for placement within 8 to 12 weeks after tooth extraction.
Immediate Dentures
Immediate dentures are made in advance and can be placed immediately after tooth extraction. They allow you to have teeth during the healing process, but may require more adjustments than conventional dentures.
Overdentures
Overdentures are designed to fit over existing teeth or dental implants. They provide additional stability and support for the denture.
Implant-Supported Dentures
Implant-supported dentures are anchored to dental implants, providing additional stability and support. They are typically more expensive than traditional dentures but offer a more natural-looking and stable solution.
Types of Dental Implants
There are several types of dental implants available, including:
- Endosteal implants
- Subperiosteal implants
- Mini implants
Endosteal Implants
Endosteal implants are the most common type of dental implant. They are surgically placed in the jawbone and allowed to fuse with the bone before the replacement tooth is attached.
Subperiosteal Implants
Subperiosteal implants are placed on top of the jawbone and under the gum tissue. They are typically used for patients who do not have enough healthy jawbone to support an endosteal implant.
Mini Implants
Mini implants are smaller than traditional implants and are typically used to support dentures. They require less bone density and can often be placed in a single appointment.
Dental Implant Procedure
The dental implant procedure typically involves several steps, including:
- Consultation: Your oral surgeon will evaluate your dental health and determine if you are a candidate for dental implants.
- Implant placement: The dental implant is surgically placed into the jawbone.
- Healing process: The implant is allowed to fuse with the jawbone, which can take several months.
- Abutment placement: Once the implant has fused with the jawbone, an abutment is attached to the implant.
- Crown placement: The replacement tooth (crown) is attached to the abutment.
Permanent Dentures and Denture Replacement
Permanent dentures, also known as fixed dentures, are a type of denture that is attached to dental implants. They are more stable than traditional dentures and can last for many years with proper care. Denture replacement may be necessary if the denture becomes damaged or worn over time.
Aftercare for Dentures and Dental Implants
Proper aftercare is essential for maintaining the health and longevity of dentures and dental implants. This includes:
- Brushing and flossing regularly
- Scheduling regular dental checkups
- Using specialized cleaning solutions for dentures
- Avoiding hard or sticky foods that can damage dentures or implants
Making the Right Choice for Your Dental Needs
When choosing between dentures and dental implants, it's important to consider your individual needs and preferences. By weighing the pros and cons of each option and consulting with a qualified oral surgeon, you can make an informed decision that will improve your dental health and quality of life.
Patient Testimonials
Hear from our patients about their experiences with Making the Right Choice: Dental Implants vs Dentures and other procedures.
"Hi, my name is Adam, and I’m from Las Vegas, and I came to Canyon Oral & Facial Surgery to get a biopsy. The atmosphere here was great. I felt very welcomed. The staff, the office assistants were great, very welcoming when I came in. All my questions I had were answered before I even had them. Everyone made me feel really comfortable. The doctors here were very knowledgeable, extremely personable, and just very welcoming and great to deal with through the entire experience. After the procedure, I feel great. Very happy I got it done here. It’s overall a great experience. To my friends and family in Las Vegas, if you need facial surgery, come to Canyon Oral & Facial Surgery."
"Hello, my name is Amanda. I’m from Las Vegas, Nevada, and I came to Canyon Oral & Facial Surgery to have my son seen for trauma. The practice here is actually very unique. The office itself is absolutely beautiful—always clean and welcoming. The front office is always very kind. The staff are my friends. Every single time I see them it's fun, it’s laughter. The doctors here make you feel like you’re part of their family. They’re both very open, honest, good communicators. You don’t feel like you’re just another number. They make you feel very individual. My experience at Canyon Oral & Facial Surgery has been great, and I highly recommend them."
"Hi, I’m Alisa from Las Vegas, Nevada, and I came to see Dr. Falk for a tooth extraction and a dental implant. The office, when I first came in, was very friendly, helpful. The staff was excellent. Any questions I had, they answered them for me. Working with Dr. Falk was fantastic. He is friendly, warm, attentive to my needs. Procedure went terrific. I had a great experience, and I highly recommend Canyon Oral Surgery."
"Hi, my name is Amber. I’m from Las Vegas. I came to Canyon Oral and Facial Surgery to get my wisdom teeth removed. When I first walked into Canyon Oral & Facial Surgery, the atmosphere was very calming and very welcoming. The staff are great. They worked with me to make sure it was a smooth process. The doctors here are awesome. Dr. Falk talked to me during my whole procedure and kept me calm, and he’s a funny guy, so that made everything go a lot more smooth. My overall experience was amazing from start to end. To my friends and family here in Las Vegas, I highly recommend the doctors here at Canyon Oral & Facial Surgery."
"Hi, my name is Ambrosio and I live in Las Vegas. I came to Canyon Oral & Facial Surgery for tooth extraction. The staff was so warm and friendly. Dr. Moody was very nice. He really listened to me and took care of me and very, very patient. The procedure was very smooth, and the recovery was outstanding. You have a beautiful, healthy smile. Feels great. I feel a lot better now and I feel confident. I highly recommend Canyon Oral & Facial Surgery to everyone."
"Hi, my name's Art and I'm from Las Vegas. I came to Canyon Oral and Facial Surgery to get a dental implant. When I first walked in, I felt very relaxed. Everyone made me feel very comfortable. I was very impressed. The staff has always been very friendly. My doctor was great. Actually, after talking to him for a few minutes, I felt like I was talking to a friend. I was very happy. The procedure went perfectly well. My recovery has been great. My confidence has gone up. I'm very happy. My overall experience with Canyon Oral and Facial Surgery has been awesome. I've been very impressed from start to finish. I would definitely recommend Canyon Oral and Facial Surgery to all my friends in Enterprise."
"Hi, my name is Alexis, I am from Las Vegas, and I had my wisdom teeth taken out by Dr. Falk. The staff here is super awesome. That’s probably why I felt so comfortable getting my wisdom teeth taken out. They make you feel like you’re super at-home, and they’re very friendly and inviting, and it’s a place that you feel really good walking into. Dr. Falk is an awesome doctor. He definitely made me feel super comfortable, and he’s very patient, and he made the process super smooth and easy. The procedure was way quicker than I expected. It was super smooth, and I’ve had no problems since. For my friends and family in Henderson, Summerlin, and Winchester, I highly recommend Canyon Oral Surgery."
"Hi, I'm Breana from Las Vegas. I came to Canyon Oral & Facial Surgery to have my wisdom teeth removed. My experience with the staff here was positive. They were really kind to me. Dr. Falk was really funny. He definitely came in and immediately just made sure that I knew what was going on and that I had been comfortable the entire time that I had been there. My quality of life has improved since getting my wisdom teeth out, and now I feel great. Watching the WUWTA videos, automatically, I kind of knew exactly what was going to be needed before the procedure, as well as what to expect afterwards. My overall experience here has been wonderful. I would recommend Canyon Oral & Facial Surgery to others."
Bri
Las Vegas
"Hi, my name is Bri and I’m from Las Vegas, and I came to Canyon Oral & Facial Surgery for BOTOX. The second you walk into this office, the doctors and the staff put your mind right at ease. The atmosphere is wonderful. All the girls greet you so warmly, and the office is just set up beautifully. The staff here are just amazing. Their smiles greet you the second you walk into the office. The doctors here have such great personalities, and their lightheartedness just puts you at ease the second you walk into their operatories. After my procedure, I’m just feeling great and I just have so much confidence. This place is truly one-of-a-kind. To my friends and family in Centennial Hills and Summerlin, I would highly recommend Canyon Oral & Facial Surgery."
Providing an Exceptional Patient Experience
Get exceptional patient care from trusted board-certified oral surgeons. Contact Canyon Oral & Facial Surgery to schedule a consultation and find out how we can improve your oral health and confidence.