A smile is one of the most important traits a person can carry. Patients with missing teeth have also found a ray of hope for a confident smile by choosing teeth replacement treatments like dentures and dental implants.
Each of the treatments offers different advantages and working mechanisms, though they both have the same goal. If you are also confused about deciding which one to choose between dentures and dental implants, let us help you. In this guide, we will explore the major differences between implants and dentures so that you can make an informed choice.
What Must You Know About Dentures?
Dentures are one of the most traditional methods of teeth replacement in dentistry. These removable prostheses replace the missing teeth along with the tissues surrounding the tooth.
There are two types of dentures. Partial dentures replace one or two missing teeth. The other ones are complete dentures that replace the entire arch, either upper, lower, or both.
Dentists design dentures by customizing them according to your mouth’s anatomy to allow maximum retention. The treatment for dentures begins by taking impressions of the patient’s mouth and creating an exact model for the fabrication. On average, the procedure for a denture takes around 3 to 4 weeks, starting from the impression to the insertion.
What You Must Know About Dental Implants?
Dental implants offer a more comfortable method for the replacement of lost teeth. Unlike dentures, dental implants are fixed and do not require frequent removal and insertion.
Dental implants use an abutment screw for their fixation within the bone, and an artificial crown over the screw. The entire process of dental implants takes about six to seven months, as it needs healing in between the procedures.
How To Choose Between Dental Implants And Dentures?
Dentists most likely recommend dental implants over dentures because of their long-term success.
However, the choice between implants and dentures depends on the patient’s preference, affordability, and dental health. The following key differences between dentures and dental implants can help you decide easily.
Longevity
Dental implants have very long-term results. When you maintain them, they can stay for a lifetime. Patients must know that they should not miss the follow-ups after getting dental implants because they are very essential in evaluating the long-term functioning of the implants.
On the other hand, dentures have less life expectancy than that of implants. They may fracture, misplace, or simply lose their retention over time.
Treatment Duration
Dental implants have a more prolonged treatment duration than dentures. The treatment can range from months to even a year. This is because many factors contribute to it, such as the patient’s age, the health of the oral tissue, and the need for additional procedures like bone grafting, which add up to the overall time of the procedure. The reason why dental implants take so long is the requirement for healing and recovery after each procedure.
On the contrary, dentures take about 3 to 4 weeks for their complete treatment process. They offer a very good choice, especially when you need an immediate teeth replacement treatment and don’t have enough time for implants.
Prevention of Bone Loss
Dental implants prevent bone resorption because of the screw placement within the bone.
Dentures do not play a major role in the prevention of bone loss. Eventually, patients might complain of other oral health issues. One such problem with bone loss after dentures is compromised retention of the denture itself.
The Cost
Since dental implants are a lengthy treatment, they have a high cost. The addition of bone grafting and surgical requirements adds to the cost. Dentures offer a more affordable option to patients.
Final Words
If affordability is your concern, then dentures can be a more reliable option. However, if long-term treatment is what you’re looking for, then dental implants are more preferable. However, the choice between the two can be best decided by your dentist. At Dynamic Dental Solutions, we ensure the long-term success of dental treatments and patient care. Call us at (281) 837-9090 to schedule a consultation with our specialist today.