Learn More about Dental Implants vs Dentures from Greeley, CO Dentist
Missing teeth causes many patients embarrassment and frustration. However, they can also affect your overall and oral health. This is why it is vital to replace your teeth and the sooner you do it, the better. Dr. Joseph Thompson offers both dentures and dental implants for patients missing most or all of their teeth on the upper or lower arch. Both of these options will restore your smile and improve your oral health. However, both offer very different advantages and disadvantages. Here, we compare dental implants vs dentures to help you choose which one is right for you.
About Dental Implants
Dental implants are a system comprised of several parts that work together to replace teeth. These three parts include: the implant fixtures, the abutments, and the false teeth. An implant is a titanium metal post that mimics a tooth root. Your dentist will surgically place between 4 and 8 of them in the jaw bone where they will fuse to the bone. Over time they will create a secure anchor to hold the false teeth securely in place.
Pros of Dental Implants
- Mimic Natural Teeth the Best – One of the main benefits of dental implants is that they look, feel, and function like natural teeth. They are designed to match the color, shape, and size of your surrounding teeth, so they blend in seamlessly. Then, since they are fuse to the bone, they allow the teeth to function like natural teeth. You will be able to eat a wider variety of food and will never have to worry about your teeth falling out or slipping around.
- Offers the Most Durability – Dental implants are designed to last a long time. However, this requires proper care and maintenance. They can last for decades or even a lifetime, making them a good long-term investment.
- Allow for Better Oral Health – Dental implants help preserve your oral health by preventing bone loss and maintaining the structure of your jawbone. The implants stimulate the jawbone allowing the bone to regenerate. This also means the structural integrity of your face will remain and not be affected in a negative way.
- Offers a Higher Patient Satisfaction Rate – Patients with dental implants enjoy a better quality of life simply because dental implants are more like natural teeth and are less of a hassle. This allows them to never have to worry about their teeth or being embarrassed by their smile. In most cases, there is not much added steps to care for or maintain their new teeth.
Cons of Dental Implants
- The Price Tag is Bigger – Dental implants are the more expensive option. For a whole row of teeth, you should expect it to cost up $25,000 per arch. However, this can vary based on oral health, number of teeth missing, and other factors.
- It Requires a Surgical Procedure – Dental implants requires surgery. Some people simply may not qualify for surgery or choose to avoid it. However, most people find the procedure to be relatively painless, and the results are worth it.
- There is a Long Period of Healing Time – Once the implants are in place, they will need several months to allow the implants to fuse to the bone. This will take several months. In most cases, the patient will need to avoid certain foods during this time period.
About Traditional Dentures
Traditional dentures are removable false teeth that are held in place by suction, adhesives, or metal clips. They are typically made from acrylic resin or porcelain and can replace several or all of your teeth on the top or bottom arch.
Pros of Traditional Dentures
- They are Very Affordable – Traditional dentures are less expensive than dental implants. People who cannot afford implants or cannot justify the costs can opt for dentures. This is a good choice for those on a budget.
- The Process to get them is Non-Invasive – Getting traditional dentures doesn’t require any surgery or major procedures at all. It is non-invasive and simply requires dental impressions. This can be a relief for people who have anxiety about dental procedures.
- They are Easy to Replace – Lost, damaged, or worn down dentures are easy to replace. We can use the current impressions or take new ones. Either way, you will not have wait too long for new teeth.
Cons of Traditional Dentures
- They are Known to Fit Poorly – Traditional dentures can slip, shift, or move around in your mouth especially if they do not fit correctly. This can be embarrassing when you are eating and speaking and your denture begins to shift. Sometimes, it can even fall out.
- The Maintenance is a Lot – Traditional dentures require special cleaning and maintenance. You will need to remove them daily and clean in addition to you regular oral hygiene routine. Then you need to make sure they never dry out, break, and remain bacteria free. You will need to soak them overnight in a special solution.
- Bone Loss – Traditional dentures will lead to bone loss in the jaw. Since they do not replace the tooth at the root like implants, your bone will slowly diminish over the years. This will lead to changes in your facial structure over time. It is also a common cause for people to appear older than they really are.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are dental implants easier to clean and maintain than dentures?
Yes, implants require less daily maintenance than removable dentures. You don’t need any adhesives or soaking solutions. You simply brush and floss them like natural teeth, focusing on cleaning around the gum margins where bacteria tend to accumulate.
Many patients find this routine simpler than the multiple steps required for proper denture care. Regular professional cleanings remain essential for implant longevity, typically every 3-4 months rather than the standard 6-month interval.
Will dental implants help improve my speech compared to dentures?
Implants can dramatically improve speech clarity compared to conventional dentures, especially for upper teeth replacements. Fixed implant restorations don’t move or slip when you talk, eliminating embarrassing clicks or whistles. Your tongue can make natural contact with the roof of your mouth since implant bridges don’t cover your palate like dentures do.
Patients often report feeling more confident speaking in professional and social situations after switching from dentures to implants.
Is it possible to combine implants and dentures for a more stable option?
Absolutely! Implant-supported dentures offer tremendous stability improvements over traditional dentures. Just 2-4 strategically placed implants can secure a full denture that won’t shift when speaking or eating. Many patients choose this hybrid solution as a cost-effective middle ground between basic dentures and full implant bridges.
The denture portion still comes out for cleaning, but snaps firmly to the implants for security during daily activities.
Are there foods I should avoid with dentures that I can eat with implants?
Yes, implants let you eat a wider variety of foods, including tougher or crunchier items like apples, nuts, and steak. With dentures, these foods can be harder to chew and may dislodge the denture. Implants provide stronger bite force and better control when eating.
What are the long-term oral health differences between dentures and implants?
Implants help preserve jawbone and prevent bone loss, while dentures do not. Over time, wearing dentures without implants can lead to a sunken facial appearance and poor fit due to shrinking bone. Implants support long-term bone health and keep your bite stable.
How do I know if I’m a candidate for dental implants or dentures?
Your dentist will check your overall health, bone levels, and gum condition to decide. Implants require enough bone and healthy gums, while dentures can be used when bone is limited. If you prefer a fixed solution and your bone is strong, implants may be a better fit.
Can I switch from dentures to dental implants later on?
Yes, many people start with dentures and later switch to implants. If bone loss has occurred, you might need a bone graft first. Your dentist can evaluate your mouth and plan a safe transition to implants for better stability and function.