Are you looking to replace one or possibly two missing teeth? If so, you have several options, including implants and dentures. Choosing dental implants or dentures depends on different factors such as remaining teeth, the health of your jawbone, preference, and price.
Bone tissue loss can alter a person's facial features, making them appear older. Bone grafting is necessary to provide a stable foundation for implant-supported dentures.
If you're looking for a permanent tooth replacement, nothing can rival dental implants. But if you are looking for removable replacements for a partial or full arch of missing teeth, dentures are an ideal option.
Each procedure has its advantages and disadvantages, so it's important to talk to your dentist to know the best option. Let's discuss bone grafts for dentures vs. dental implants.
What Are Dentures?
Dentures are prosthetic teeth used as a replacement for teeth that have been lost due to an injury or tooth decay, amongst other causes. They are designed to match the size and shape of the jaw and are removable. There are two main types of dentures:
- Partial Dentures
Partial dentures are worn by patients missing a particular arch of teeth and anchor on existing teeth to prevent unnecessary movement from biting forces.
- Complete Dentures
Complete dentures are worn by patients missing all their teeth in a single arch, and the surrounding soft and hard tissue supports them.
Dentures need to be adjusted or reclined after one or two years because of the natural changes that occur after teeth removal. After tooth extraction, the gum tissue and bone begin to shrink because the roots are absent.
The seal between the gums and dentures reduce due to these changes causing movement. Ill-fitting dentures can cause further tissue changes and bone loss.
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are titanium posts or metal screws embedded surgically into a patient's jawbone to replace missing tooth roots. Implants support different prosthetics, such as implant bridges or a crown.
They are also used to retain dentures by using components designed to lock them into place, preventing embarrassing or annoying movement. They are similar to tooth roots and take up space in the jaw bone preventing further bone loss. Implant dentures are of three main types.
- Endosteal Implants
Endosteal implants are performed in the bone where blades, cylinders, and screws hold the teeth for patients with removable dentures or bridges. The screw is placed into the jawbone to hold the replacement tooth.
- Subperiosteal Implants
Subperiosteal implants are performed on the bone when a patient doesn't have adequate bone to support the implant. They can either be placed above or on the jawbone to hold a replacement tooth.
- Implant Overdentures
Implant overdentures can be a better option than traditional dentures for healthy patients who can undergo tooth extraction. Overdentures are done on top of implants to add stability. The benefits include improved speech, minimized discomfort, and ease of chewing foods.
Advantages of Dental Implants vs. Dentures
Even though dentures and implants act as a replacement for missing teeth, implants are a longer-lasting option, especially if you have a large amount of dental work already done, including tooth extractions, crowns, root canals, etc. Here are benefits of dental implants vs. dentures.
1. Dentures Need Special Care and Maintenance
Dentures need to be cleaned every night as directed and require extra care. Dental implants like natural teeth simply need to be brushed and flossed every day and checked on by your dentist after six months, making them easier to manage.
2. Dentures Will Need Replacement After Some Time
If you choose dentures, there is a high probability they will need replacement after a few years. But dental implants can last a lifetime with good oral care.
Wearing dentures increases the risk of irritation between the gum line and denture. There is also a likelihood of getting an infection if you don't follow good dental hygiene standards.
3. Dental Implants Help Prevent More Bone Loss
As stated earlier, dental implants act as a replacement for tooth roots to prevent further bone loss. Dentures only sit on the gum, providing an aesthetic tooth replacement so bone shrinkage and loss will occur in time. After a teeth removal procedure, a gap is left on the jawbone, which encourages further bone loss.
4. Implants Look More Like Natural Teeth
Implants function and look just like natural teeth and can withstand chewing and biting forces. It means that you don't have to restrict or change your diet like you would if you chose dentures.
Risks
Some patients may not be eligible for dental implant surgery immediately. Your dentist will work with your medical doctor to address your needs and identify the best implants for you. The following issues need to be addressed before a person can have the surgery.
- Soft tissue infection
- Bone infection or disease
- Acute illness
- A metabolic disease that is uncontrollable
Dentures vs. Dental Implants: Between the Two Which Is the Most Convenient Tooth Replacement Option
A dental implant is an ideal option if you want a permanent tooth replacement that needs the same care as your natural teeth. It is a great way to replace your missing teeth and prevent further jaw bone deterioration. You won't have to change your diet or be self-conscious because people will not be able to tell the difference between an implant and the rest of your natural teeth.
Cost
Dental implant surgery cost varies depending on these factors:
- Location of the implants
- Types and number of implants needed
- If there is a need for additional procedures to prepare your mouth for surgery
Your oral surgeon will give you an estimate of the cost of the surgery during the initial consultation. Most dental insurance policies cover a considerable fraction of the cost.
Choose the Best Oral Surgeon
Tooth implants get done in different stages, and you will need some time to heal and recuperate. If you have a tooth extracted, talk to your dentist to know if dentures or implants are right for you. If they think either would be a good option for you, you may consider choosing implants because they last a lifetime and help prevent further bone loss.
At North Shore Smile Surgery, we have over 30 years of experience, the latest technology, and a comfortable environment to give you the smile you deserve. Whether you have been thinking of replacing your teeth with implants or your dentist recommended getting a tooth extracted, we are here to improve your oral health. We accept most dental insurances.
Schedule an appointment with us today to find out more about how we can help you with implants.
