Implants offer permanent solutions with normal dental maintenance and promote better jawbone density.

# Dentures Comparison

IMPLANTS AND DENTURES COMPARISON

When it comes to tooth loss, there are several restorations available today. Because there are so many options, deciding which restoration is right for you may be a difficult task. If you are currently deciding between dental implants and dentures, Rockwall Oral Surgery is here to help. While dentures may be suitable for some patients, we believe that dental implants are the superior solution for tooth replacement. Because of their many benefits, dental implants are the next best thing to your natural teeth!

Questions About Implants and Dentures?

Do you still have questions about whether dental implants or dentures are the right option for you? Schedule your appointment today by calling us at (469)757-4433. We are looking forward to seeing you at our Rockwall dental practice.

Dentures vs. Implants

Explanations and Pros/Cons.

Comparing the Experience of Denture with Dental Implants

Each patient’s situation is unique, but you may find yourself in a place where both dentures and dental implants are an option to replace missing teeth. Here is a comparison of the experiences if you do have that option.

 

Permanent Solution

Dentures are removable, so they are not a permanent solution to replacing missing teeth. Dentures are a long-term solution that required maintenance including possible repair or replacement over time. Dental implants are crowns built to a titanium post that is adhered to your jawbone. Thus, a dental implant is considered a permanent solution for missing teeth.

Length of Time

A dental implant starts with surgically implanting a titanium post into the jawbone like a root for the replacement crown. Thus, there is a period of healing and time is also needed to let the jawbone take hold of the post. Following healing, the crown can be added, completing the implant process. This process takes several months. With dentures, the process is much faster as you get your dentures fitted once they are completed, typically in three to six weeks.

Dental Dentures Explained

Maintenance

Other than normal day-to-day dental care, dental implants require no ongoing maintenance. Dentures are removable and require day-to-day dental care for the mouth plus cleaning and maintenance of the dentures. Also, as they are removable, dentures may break and require replacement. When considering the cost of both procedures, it’s important to consider lifetime maintenance costs.

Invasive

Dentures sit on the gums, so there is no invasive surgery to hold them in place. The procedure for implants requires the surgical placement of a titanium post into the jawbone, so there is an invasive step to getting an implant.

The Pro's and Con's of Implants and Dentures

Dental implants have become the gold standard for tooth replacement, because of their proven track record and numerous benefits.

Aesthetics

Dentures: While recent advancements have led to more comfortable and aesthetically-pleasing dentures, they still fall short of dental implants in almost every way.

Implants: Implant-supported restorations are usually made for porcelain or zirconia. Both materials mimic the texture and light-reflecting properties of natural enamel.

Function

Implants: Implants function just like your natural teeth. Osseointegration allows the implant and bone to mimic the relationship of a natural tooth. This means your implant-supported restoration will be able to withstand the pressures of your bite without slipping or breaking.

Dentures: While dentures will allow you to eat, you will constantly be aware of them. Eating may be uncomfortable at times or the denture may slip out of place.

Longevity

Implants: Traditional dentures need to be replaced or repaired every few years. Under the right care, implant-supported restorations can last for decades or even a lifetime!

Dentures: Dentures can be less expensive when compared to implants, and they can last a long time when cared for properly. While an implant is still better as a long-term solution, dentures can be good for patients who are on a tight budget.

Comfort

Implants: Because the implant becomes a part of your jaw, it does not rely on the gum tissue for support. Dentures, on the other hand, can lead to irritation, discomfort, and infection because they constantly rest on the gum tissue.

Dentures: Dentures are typically not very comfortable, even when they are custom-fitted. Even the most comfortable dentures will never match the feeling of your natural teeth or dental implants.

Health

Implants: Implants provide physical stimulation to the jawbone and prevent future bone deterioration. They also do not affect surrounding teeth, unlike partial dentures.

Dentures: Dental implants are only successful if a patient has an adequate bone density and quantity. Dr. Kevin Pollock may recommend dentures for patients with an insufficient amount of bone in the jaw, while dentures will not require any additional procedures.