Dentures vs. Dental Implants
Dentures
Dentures are the more traditional option and have been around for centuries. They are made to fit snugly over your gums and replace your missing teeth. They are made from a mold of your mouth and custom-fitted.
The main advantage of dentures is that they are less expensive than dental implants. They are a great way to replace missing teeth if you need a quick and inexpensive solution. Maintenance is easy as they can be removed and cleaned. However, because dentures are not fixed, they are not stable and may slip when eating or speaking. They also put pressure on the gums and underlying bone which causes bone loss and resoprion over time.
Dental Implants
Dental implants are a permanent solution for tooth loss. Titanium posts are surgically implanted into your jawbone to replace your missing teeth and natural tooth root. The advantage of dental implants is that they look and feel just like your natural teeth and support your jawbone and remaining teeth in a way dentures and other restorations cannot. Gum disease becomes more likely for those with missing teeth and even dentures since they do not adequately support the bone.
Dental implants are also very strong and durable, and they won’t slip or move around in your mouth. Implants are more diverse and can be used to replace one or a few missing teeth or attach complete dentures to restore your smile. Implant-supported dentures are usually more comfortable than traditional dentures and can give you a more natural-looking smile.
The main downside of dental implants is that they are a more expensive option and require surgery. However, dental implants are a long-term investment that can last a lifetime with proper care, and other tooth replacement options will need replacement every few years.
Which option looks more like natural teeth?
Both dentures and dental implants can look like natural teeth. However, dentures may slip or move around in your mouth, affecting your speech and eating. Dental implants are a more permanent solution that looks and feels like your natural or existing teeth. Prosthetic teeth have come a long way and can be made to look very natural. However, the dental implant procedure enhances the natural feeling of prior teeth and better supports your gums and jawbone.
What limitations come with dental implants vs. dentures?
Dental implants are a more expensive option and require surgery to place. However, dental implants are a long-term investment that can last a lifetime with proper care. Other tooth replacement options will need replacement every few years. Implants also require a certain amount of jawbone dentistry to ensure their success. Those with low jaw density or a small jawbone may require a bone graft before this procedure.
Dentures may slip or move around in your mouth, affecting your speech and eating. They also require special care and cleaning to keep them in good condition. You will also need denture adhesive to hold your dentures in place.
How much do dentures and dental implants cost?
Dentures are the less expensive option for tooth replacement, and they do not require surgery. The cost of dentures can range from a few hundred dollars to a few thousand, depending on the type of denture and the materials used.
Dental implants can range from a few thousand to tens of thousands of dollars, depending on the number of implants needed and the type of implant used. Insurance may cover some of the cost of dental implants.
So, which is the best option for your missing teeth?
The best option for you will depend on your individual needs and budget. Dentures are a less expensive option that does not require surgery. Dental implants are a more expensive option that requires surgery, but they look and feel like your natural teeth and last a lifetime with proper care. Talk to Dr. Akbar Dawood about which option is best for you.
No matter which tooth replacement option you choose, our team at Virginia Oral Surgery Specialists in Vienna, VA, will work with you to restore your smile. We offer dental implants, and other permanent teeth replacements to meet your needs. Call us today to schedule a consultation.
