By: Dr. Lahiru Chandraweera
January 01, 2023
The Dental Implant vs. Denture Debate: Which is the Better Option?
Are you looking to replace missing teeth but aren’t sure which option – dental implants or dentures – is suitable for your needs? If so, you’re not alone! Many people face similar dilemmas when choosing between dental implants and dentures. While both can be viable options for tooth restoration, selecting the right one for you is critical.
We understand how confusing this decision can be. This is why, in this blog post, we created a comprehensive comparison guide that outlines all the pertinent details on each treatment type. We hope this helps you make an educated decision.
Let’s delve into these two popular solutions. Let’s compare dental implants vs. dentures and explore their pros and cons in detail!
What Is the Procedure for Getting Dental Implants?
The process of getting dental implants may seem intimidating. However, it is a straightforward process if you break it down step by step.
Initial Consultation
At this stage, your dentist will assess your oral health. They will check for gum disease and other oral health problems. Your dentist will then prepare a unique treatment plan based on your dental needs.
As part of the initial consultation, X-rays or other imaging scans may be taken. These will allow your dentist to evaluate if you have sufficient bone density to support the dental implant.
Additionally, further discussion will take place around your medical history and lifestyle habits. This information will help determine if dental implants are right for you.
Preparation
The preparation stage is an integral part of the dental implant procedure. During this phase, additional procedures necessary for the success of the dental implant treatment are performed.
- If the damaged tooth is still present, tooth extraction is needed.
- Bone grafting may be necessary if bone loss has occurred and there is insufficient bone density in the jaw.
- The dentist may also recommend performing a sinus lift. This is a procedure wherein the sinus membrane is lifted to add bone around the area where the implant will be placed.
- A gum graft might be required for areas with gum recession.
These procedures may not be necessary for all patients; however, if they are required, they can lengthen the treatment time and increase the cost.
Implant Installation
The implant installation stage of the dental implant procedure is an intricate part of the treatment. During this stage, a metal implant post is inserted into the jawbone to take the place of the natural tooth roots. This implant post serves as a base for the eventual bridge or crown that will be attached.
A small incision will be made on the gum tissue where the titanium implant post will be placed. Upon implant insertion, your dentist will let it heal until it has fused with your jawbone. This can take from several weeks to a few months.
Abutment Placement
The abutment placement stage of the dental implant procedure is critical in having false teeth placed. After the implant post has fused with the jawbone, a second oral surgery is done. The gum is incised to expose the implant. Then, the abutment, the intermediate piece responsible for connecting the replacement tooth to the implant, is placed.
After suturing the gums closed, an impression or mould of the area is taken. This will be used during the fabrication of the replacement teeth, which can be a dental crown, bridge, or denture.
Dental Prosthesis Placement
This stage of the dental implant procedure is the final step of the treatment. Once the gums have healed around the abutment, the replacement tooth, or prosthesis, is placed on top of the abutment. This could either be a dental crown, denture, or dental bridge. They are designed and tailored to replicate the appearance of natural teeth.
After this stage, your dentist will discuss with you the proper care for your implant. This includes what foods you should eat and avoid and how to clean the implant.
What Is the Procedure for Getting Dentures?
When considering dentures to address tooth loss, it is essential to understand the procedure. Whether you’re having partial dentures or complete dentures, the following steps are usually involved:
Dental Examination
Your dentist will need to examine your mouth and teeth. This helps them identify any issues that may affect the placement of dentures. The examination can include the following:
- X-rays and scans of the jawbone area
- checking for tooth decay or gum disease
- overall oral health assessment
Impression Taking and Denture Making
After the examination, your dentist will take impressions of your upper and lower teeth. For those who have lost all their teeth, an impression of the upper and lower jawbone will be taken. The impressions will be used to create a customised set of dentures.
Denture Fitting
Once the wax patterns of the dentures have been fabricated, it has to be fitted on you. The fitting process can involve multiple visits. During each visit, the dentist will inspect the fit of your dentures, evaluate your bite and make any necessary adjustments to ensure that it fits you. After the denture has been adjusted, your dentist will have it processed. Once finished, you’ll be able to have your dentures.
Adjustments and Aftercare
You must visit your dentist regularly so they can adjust the dentures as needed. In addition, regular maintenance and hygiene are necessary to preserve the longevity of your dentures and your dental health.
What Are the Advantages of Dental Implants Over Dentures?
When it comes to tooth replacement options, patients are presented with the choice between dentures or dental implants. Although both may seem like viable options, dental implants provide advantages that aren’t found in dentures.
Here are some advantages of dental implants over dentures:
- They look and feel natural:
Dental implants look and feel just like real teeth, blending in seamlessly with your existing ones. Additionally, since they are fused to the jawbone, dental implants feel like natural teeth. - They’re comfortable:
Dentures can be uncomfortable as they may slip and move out of place. Dental implants are fixed directly to the jawbone, providing a stable and comfortable replacement for missing teeth. - They don’t require special cleaning:
Unlike dentures, dental implants don’t need to be taken out for special cleaning or soaking. They are cleaned the same way as natural teeth, through brushing and flossing. - They help preserve your jawbone:
Because tooth implants are fused directly into the jawbone, they help keep it healthy and prevent bone loss. They also help prevent facial collapse. - There is no need for special denture adhesive:
Unlike dentures, which require special adhesives to keep them in place, dental implants are secured directly into the jaw and do not need any adhesive. - They last longer: Dental implants provide a long-term solution for missing teeth. They can last up to 25 years with proper maintenance and care. On the other hand, traditional dentures will need to be replaced every few years.
- They can improve your quality of life:
Dental implants often have a positive effect on a patient’s self-esteem, as well as their ability to eat, speak, and smile with confidence. They can also make daily activities such as brushing and flossing easier.
In terms of functionality and aesthetics, it is clear why dental implants are the preferred tooth replacement option on the market today.
What Are the Advantages of Dentures Over Dental Implants?
Dentures also have quite a few advantages over dental implants, making them an attractive treatment option for patients who need dental replacements. These include:
- Cost:
Dentures are generally much more affordable than dental implants. - Faster installation:
They are faster to install as they don’t require any surgical procedure or recovery time. - Easy to repair:
Dentures are easy to repair if they become damaged or need to be replaced. - Adjustability:
Dentures can be easily adjusted and customised to achieve the desired look and feel. - Suitability:
Dentures may be a better option for those who have existing medical conditions which prevent them from being able to take on the risks of implant surgery.
For so long, dentures have been one of the most popular forms of tooth replacement due to their many advantages. Through careful evaluation, your dentist can assist you in deciding if dentures are the appropriate option for you.
Which Is More Expensive: Dental Implants or Dentures?
When it comes to replacing missing teeth, dental implants, and dentures are both excellent choices. However, when it comes to cost, the differences can be significant. Whereas a set of conventional dentures usually costs between \$800 and \$1,500 per arch, a single dental implant can cost up to 4,000-\$6,000 or \$16,000-\$42,000 per arch for All-on-Four implants. It is important to note that these prices are just estimates and that a more accurate quotation can be obtained after a thorough examination by your dentist.
For those looking for a cost-effective solution who don’t mind wearing removable dentures, traditional dentures could be the appropriate option. However, if stability, comfort, and aesthetics are paramount, and you can afford implant surgery, dental implants could be the better option.
What Factors Should I Consider When Deciding Between These Two Options?
When choosing between dental implants and dentures, there are several factors to consider, including:
- Cost:
Implants can be significantly more expensive than dentures, and not all health funds may cover the cost. In most cases, dentures can be covered by health funds. - Longevity:
The average lifespan of a dental implant is 25 years or more, while dentures usually need replacement every 5 to 7 years. - Maintenance:
Dental implants are brushed and flossed like natural teeth, while dentures are removable and can be cleaned using a toothbrush and a denture cleaner. - Appearance:
Implants mimic the anatomy of natural teeth, and they can be designed to blend in with them. The artificial teeth used in dentures can be customised to have the same contour and shape as natural teeth, but they tend to have a more artificial appearance. - Healing process and recovery time:
With implant placement being a more complex procedure that entails surgery and osseointegration with body tissues, patients may have a longer healing period with implants than with dentures. Dentures do not require surgery.Patients usually take 1-2 months to become accustomed to wearing them after they have been fitted.
- Functionality:
An implant provides greater stability for chewing and speaking since it is embedded in bone. Dentures may gradually shift in position or become loose, making eating and talking difficult.
These factors mentioned above are crucial when choosing between dental implants and dentures. They must be weighed carefully before coming to a decision.
Final Thoughts
Dental implants and dentures have become viable options for patients who have lost their teeth. Patients must weigh their pros and cons when deciding between these two options. They should discuss their needs with their dentist to determine which option is right for them.
At Hills Family Dental Centre, we have the knowledge and experience to help you make an informed decision. We strive to provide our patients with quality dental services and welcome any questions or concerns you may have about any dental procedure.
The experienced dentists at Hills Family Dental Centre will be more than happy to discuss your needs and help you choose the option that fits you. Book an appointment today through our website, or give us a call to start your journey towards a beautiful smile!
Frequently Asked Questions
Are dental implants more expensive than other tooth replacement options?
Many dental patients wonder if dental implants are more expensive than other tooth replacement options. The answer to this can vary depending on various factors.
Generally speaking, dental implants will be more expensive because the process is incredibly detailed and requires specialised skills. Dental implants are made of a titanium post implanted into the jawbone, followed by a dental crown placed on top, making them a durable option for those looking for a long-term solution to tooth loss.
Although dental implants tend to be pricier than dentures or bridges, many people choose them because of their higher success rates and benefits. Ultimately, this decision depends on your dental care needs and budget.
Are dental implants covered by health funds?
Dental implants are an increasingly common procedure that many consider a necessary part of dental care. When considering dental implants, it’s important to know whether or not your health fund covers them.
Unfortunately, most health funds do not cover dental implants because they are considered cosmetic procedures. However, if there is a medical necessity for dental implants due to disease or injury, some health funds will cover the costs depending on your coverage plan.
Before going forward with dental implant surgery, consult your health fund provider about which aspects may be covered. Chances are, you’ll have to pay part of the cost out-of-pocket.
What is the recovery time for dental implant surgery?
Depending on the complexity of the surgery, dental implant recovery time can vary from person to person. After implant placement is complete, it can take as little as 2-6 months for gums and bone to heal around the post so an artificial crown can be attached. Until then, patients can expect to experience some swelling, tenderness, and even bleeding in the affected area. In extreme cases where additional surgeries are required for a better outcome, such as sinus lift or bone graft procedures, healing may take six months or more.
To reduce discomfort during recovery and speed up healing time, dentists usually recommend taking healthy doses of vitamins, maintaining good oral hygiene, and following a soft diet.
How do I care for my dental implants?
Taking good care of your dental implants is important to make sure they last long. Here are five tips to help you look after your implants well:
- Maintain good oral hygiene practices in the same way you would for natural teeth. Brush at least twice a day and floss daily.
- Visit your dentist regularly. Do this once every six months for check-ups and professional cleaning.
- Avoid biting or chewing hard objects that could damage your implants.
- Steer clear of sugary, acidic foods and beverages, which can lead to plaque accumulation and gum disease around the implant area.
- Contact your dentist if you observe any redness and swelling in the gums around the implant or if it feels loose. They might need to be adjusted or replaced.
These tips will help keep your dental implants healthy and give you a beautiful smile for many years.
