Dentures vs Implants
For patients who need to replace a number of missing teeth, traditional dentures are usually the first thing that comes to mind but there are a number of options available! Dental implants are a great choice but not everyone is a candidate for implants and the patient’s individual case will greatly depend on their ability to receive dental implants and endure the surgery and extended healing time. There are factors that need to be taken into consideration when deciding which treatment path you want to take such as the price of each treatment option, your oral and overall health, and your personal preference.
Both traditional dentures and dental implants serve the same purpose and allow the patient to eat and speak naturally. Of course there are advantages and disadvantages to each restoration so it is important to review your options with your Dentist and make sure you both are on the same page as far as your goals and concerns.
Other alternatives to dentures and dental implants are available if neither is right for you. A traditional denture is a removable dental prosthesis that can be placed regardless of how much jaw bone structure is available. Dental implants are a permanent dental prosthesis and require sufficient bone structure for proper support so not everyone is a candidate for dental implants.
Procedure For Dentures and Dental Implants
Dentures:
If you choose a traditional denture to restore your smile, your Dentist will begin by taking a simple impression of both the upper and lower jaw which is then used to make stone models to send to the dental lab that will fabricate a temporary denture for you to wear while your final denture is being made.
When your temporary denture is ready, your Dentist will place the denture and examine the bite and alignment of your upper and lower jaw to make sure that the length of the teeth in your new denture is appropriate for your individual case. If any adjustments need to be made to the alignment or the length of the teeth, your Dentist will make those adjustments and notify the dental lab before your final denture is produced. The denture will be made of an acrylic base that matches the color of your gum tissue and porcelain teeth. Dentures are made to be a natural looking dental restoration and are held in place on your gums with suction and retention. When necessary, an adhesive may be used.
Dental Implants:
Dental implants are a screw-like, titanium post that is surgically placed into your jaw bone. Sufficient bone structure is necessary to support the implant but in the event that there is not enough bone, you may be a candidate for a bone graft before the implant is placed. A dental implant is placed by an Oral Surgeon or Periodontist.
The doctor will begin by making a small incision in the gum tissue and then drill a small hole into the bone. They will then secure the implant in the bone and suture the gum tissue back together. A small portion of the implant will protrude above the gum tissue as the part that holds the dental prosthesis.
A temporary abutment, or healing cap, is placed on the exposed portion of the implant to protect it from damage and infection for the duration of your healing time, which can take up to six months. During this time, the implant will fuse with your jaw bone to form a secure foundation for your implant restoration. Once the implant is healed, the artificial tooth or other implant restoration is placed using an abutment to attach it to the implant.
How much do dentures and dental implants cost?
Dental implants are one on the more expensive side of restorative treatment options. A dental implant can cost between $1600 and $2200 per tooth. Dentures are less expensive but come with their own disadvantages. A full denture can cost about $1600 per arch.
What risks are associated with each type of restoration?
Dental implants are a safe and effective way to replace missing teeth and have a success rate between 95% and 97%, but there are complications that can arise. A mechanical problem such as a loose implant or cracked implant crown can happen as well as infection at the implant.
Dentures are not without their own possible complications. The most common problem with dentures is most often the fit. If the denture does not stay in place, it can shift around in the mouth, resulting in friction that can cause sores on the gum tissue, making the denture uncomfortable to wear. Prolonged use of a denture can also lead to jaw bone deterioration, causing the denture to become ill-fitting and need to be adjusted or eventually replaced with a new denture.
How are dentures and implants maintained?
A dental implant does not require special treatment and should be brushed and flossed just like your natural teeth. In the event that your implant incurs damage, your Dentist will be able to replace a broken crown or abutment but your implant doctor will need to address any issues with the actual implant.
Caring for a denture is a little more involved. It should not be worn while you sleep so before bed, it should be placed in a cup of water or a special cleaning solution and left to soak overnight after brushing them thoroughly to remove any food particles and debris. If you experience changes to your bite, your denture may need to be realigned or adjusted to fit better.
Dental implants are a more comfortable and stable way for patients to replace missing teeth. Patients that need to have a full arch on one or both arches replaced may consider an implant-supported denture.
If you are missing a significant number of teeth, it is important to discuss your goals and concerns with your Dentist before deciding on a treatment plan. Dental implants are more expensive but will last significantly longer than a denture and are typically more cost effective in the long run. Any restorative treatment is an investment in your overall health so make sure that you gather as much information as possible to make an educated decision.