Dentures vs. Dental Implants: A Detailed Comparison to Help You Make the Right Choice
When it comes to fixing missing teeth, you have two popular options: dentures and dental implants. Both options come with their own set of benefits and drawbacks, which can make the decision-making process overwhelming. In this blog post, we'll discuss the differences between dentures and dental implants, to help you make an informed decision that best suits your oral health needs.
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What are Dentures?
Dentures are removable dental appliances that are used to replace missing teeth and can be custom-made to fit comfortably in your mouth. There are two types of dentures: partial and complete. Partial dentures are used when a patient is missing several teeth, while complete dentures are used when a patient is missing all of their teeth.
Pros of Dentures:
One significant advantage of dentures is that they are considerably cheaper than dental implants. They are also non-invasive, meaning they do not require any surgery or healing time, and are less invasive to the surrounding teeth and gums. Additionally, dentures are easier to clean and maintain compared to dental implants.
Cons of Dentures:
Dentures may not be as comfortable as dental implants since they rely on the mouth's roof for support, which can cause irritation, discomfort, and sores. Another downside is that dentures must be removed nightly for cleaning, which can be inconvenient or embarrassing for some individuals. They can also move around while eating or talking, leading to self-consciousness or embarrassment. On top of that, even the best form of dentures requires periodic adjustments and replacements, so they don't last as long as dental implants.
What are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are small metal posts surgically placed in the jawbone that serves as the root of the missing tooth. After the implant is placed, an abutment is attached to the post, which fuses with the mouth's surrounding gum tissue. Finally, the false tooth is attached to the abutment and molded and shaped specifically for the patient's mouth.
Pros of Dental Implants:
Perhaps the most significant advantage of dental implants is that they are a permanent solution to missing teeth problems. They function like natural teeth, look great, and last for a long time. Dental implants are more comfortable over time since they fuse with the jawbone, creating a solid foundation for the tooth. They also don't interfere with speech the way that dentures may. These implants stimulate natural bone growth, preventing the jawbone from deteriorating, a common issue with dentures is that they cause the jawbone to resorb.
Cons of Dental Implants:
Dental implants are a very invasive surgical procedure and require a longer healing time than dentures. The process can take several months, which can be a con for those who seek immediate relief from their missing teeth and want to avoid surgery. Patients who undergo dental implant surgery have a higher risk of complications, such as infection or nerve damage. Due to the surgical procedure, the cost of dental implants is higher than dentures.
In conclusion, both dentures and dental implants have their own set of pros and cons which patients must weigh in when considering their options for replacing missing teeth. While dentures are the less expensive choice, they come with drawbacks such as discomfort or inconvenience, dental implants are an excellent solution for missing teeth due to their permanence, comfort, and function, but they can be challenging for some people just because of the surgical process. Ultimately, the choice between dentures and dental implants boils down to the individual's oral health needs, preferences, and budget. We hope that this blog post has provided sufficient information to help you organize your thoughts about these two options so that you can consult with your dental professional and make the right choice.