If you want to replace some missing teeth, you have limited options. You either choose implants or dentures. However, choosing the right approach depends on various factors, such as the remaining teeth, jawbone health, prices, and preference.
Dental implants and dentures have their pros and cons. It’s, therefore, important to discuss with your dentist to know what suits you the best. Implants and dentures have the same purpose, which includes:
- Improve speech
- Enables you to chew food with ease
- Reduce self-consciousness
- Boost self-esteem and confidence
- Support facial muscles
Although these two options serve the same purpose, they have some differences.
Dental Implants VS Dentures: Major Differences
Learning the differences between implants and dentures will enable you to choose the right approach. Some of the differences include:
Cost
The cost of dentures and implants varies, but implants are more expensive. According to the American Dental Association, the price of a dental implant per tooth may range between $1,600 and $2,200. On the other hand, dentures may cost around $1,600 for a complete upper denture.
However, dentures need to be removed regularly for cleaning with a possibility of being replaced. You’ll also be restricted from eating some foods as they may affect your dentures.
Procedure
With implants, screw-like implants are capped with crowns. The damaged root is first extracted, and a hole is drilled into your jawbone. A post, customarily called a metal prosthetic root, will get implanted deep into the drilled hole.
The root will be covered with a crown, but only once the bone grows around the post. This may take a couple of months. The final stage is to have an artificial match that surrounds the teeth.
On the other hand, dentures are prosthetic, removable teeth that can be easily fitted in your mouth regardless of your bone stature. Dentures may replace all upper or lower jaw sets of teeth or replace a few of them, called a partial denture.
The dentists will first study the alignment of your lower and upper jaws to ensure the length of the dentures will enable you to chew with ease. Dentures are designed to look like natural gums and teeth held with a unique adhesive to bond them firmly to your gums.
Maintenance
Taking care of your implants is the same as a dental hygiene routine for natural teeth. It means you brush at least twice a day, flossing with regular checkups. Ensure you use a soft-bristle brush to avoid damaging implants.
Greater daily maintenance is required to make dentures remain viable. For instance, you should wear them overnight and should be soaked in a special cleaning solution or water during that time.
Ensure you remove them after taking meals and brush them. And since your bite changes with time, the dentures may need to get refitted now and then.
Book an Appointment with Professionals
Ensure you choose between implants and dentures carefully and in consultation with a professional. Although dental implants are expensive, you’re guaranteed several years of service. However, dentures are ideal if you have a tight budget.
If you’re in Salt Lake City, Utah, free to visit or call us to schedule your appointment date.
