Comparing Dental Implants to Dentures

As far as tooth-replacement options go, you’re probably most familiar with dentures. However, somethings you might want to consider that are more permanent are dental implants. Dental implants are rising in popularity and if you’re seriously…

As far as tooth-replacement options go, you’re probably most familiar with dentures. However, somethings you might want to consider that are more permanent are dental implants. Dental implants are rising in popularity and if you’re seriously considering restoring your smile because of damaged or missing teeth, you might want to consider implants rather than dentures.

So what makes implants so much better than dentures? Find out by reading the differences between these two tooth replacement options below to help you decide which is best for you based on your budget, health, and expectations.

Comparing Dental Implants to Dentures

The first thing that might come to your mind when weighing your options between dentures and dental implants is probably cost. Money is a huge influencer in any life decision—especially when it comes to health care costs because they’re typically the most expensive.

So how do dentures and dental implants compare on the price scale? See what ClearChoice Dental Implant Centers has to say about pricing between the two and their durability:

Dental implants or dentures: Finding the right fit

Dentures are a more affordable option for tooth replacement. But once you add in buying fixatives, cleaning solutions and denture replacements, the cost does go up. When you consider that removable dentures usually need to be replaced every seven to 15 years, compared to an average 25-year life span for dental implants, it’s easy to see why so many people think of dental implants as a long-term investment in themselves. For those who want a permanently fixed solution that’s the next best thing to their natural teeth, dental implants are definitely an investment worth making. Dentures simply can’t match the comfort, confidence and peace of mind that dental implants provide.

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So dental implants appear to be more permanent than dentures and only require replacement about every 25 years. Considering most patients that get dental implants their first time around are already middle-aged or older, their implants can very well last them the rest of their lifetime. One way to extend the life of either your dentures or dental implants is to also practice proper hygiene routines daily.

Curious to know some more reasons to consider dental implants over dentures? Look below to see what Dental Associates has to say about the disadvantages of dentures.

Dental implant: Permanent dentures replacement

The disadvantages of dentures are also abundant, and include the following:

  • Dentures are uncomfortable, often painful and do not look natural.
  • Some denture adhesives contain zinc, which can cause neurologic problems.
  • Denture wearers have limited taste sensation.
  • Those with dentures often suffer with bad breath.
  • Dentures must be removed during most hospital visits and medical appointments.
  • People with dentures have to be very careful what they eat, and can rarely eat anything crunchy or chewy.
  • Self-consciousness during intimate moments.

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Keeping in mind the many disadvantages of dentures, how do dental implants compare? Aspen Dental goes over the benefits of choosing implants instead of dentures in the following article. Learn why implant dentistry might provide you with longer, more natural, and more comfortable tooth replacement solutions.

Benefits of dental implants

“Dental implants are an effective way to replace missing teeth. When teeth are lost because of disease or an accident, dental implants may be a good option. You may want to choose dental implants if you:

  • Hide your smile because you have missing teeth.
  • Wear dentures that are uncomfortable.
  • Are dissatisfied with your removable partial dentures.
  • Want to keep your other teeth intact.

Many people choose implants to replace a single tooth or several teeth, or to support a full set of dentures. Implants are posts surgically placed into the upper or lower jawbone. They replace the root of one or more missing teeth.

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In conclusion, it is evident that dental implants might offer greater advantages to patients in general compared to their less permanent alternative (dentures). Dentures can also provide consistent discomfort and irritation to the gums as well as make the patient feel insecure with their smile. No one wants to feel like they have to hide their smile away out of fear that someone will judge them.

Stephen Nozaki, DDS, MPH, DIDIA

Dr. Stephen Nozaki is the owner and lead dentist at Image Dental in Stockton. He is a dedicated professional born and raised in California's Central Valley. With a commitment to his community, he brings advanced dental techniques learned from extensive education and continuous training from around the world. A third-generation Japanese American, Dr. Nozaki has a rich background that includes international living and a deep passion for both dentistry and outdoor activities. His focus in dentistry aligns with his passion for cosmetics and dental implants.