Dentures Vs. Dental Implants
Dentures Vs. Dental Implants
Dental Implants in Detail
Dental implants are titanium rods or screws that are fused to your jawbone. In essence, they act as artificial roots, and serve as a base for a permanent tooth replacement, called a crown, that mimics the look and feel of natural teeth. After the titanium rod is secure, your dentist will attach the crown to it—the result: a replacement that looks like your natural tooth.
Dentures vs. Dental Implants: Bite by Bite
When considering replacements for missing teeth, the real question is, how do each of these options stack up? Here’s the breakdown:
Longevity
Dental implants win hands down. If you take good care of your implants, they can last as long as natural teeth. Dentures, on the other hand, typically need to be replaced every five to eight years.
Functionality
Although dental implants aren’t a like-for-like replacement for a natural tooth — they are made from titanium and are comparable in strength and performance to natural teeth. The same can’t be said for dentures, which can slip and slide around in your mouth, sometimes making it difficult to speak or eat. While modern dentures have come a long way, they’re still no match for the permanence of dental implants.
Aesthetics
When it comes to looks, in general, dental implants are more natural-looking than dentures. However, if you get your dentures custom made by a professional, most people won’t be able to tell the difference. It just depends on how much you’re willing to pay.
Comfort
Since dental implants are literally fused to your jawbone, they will feel natural and well-fitting in your mouth and typically don’t cause discomfort, especially once you’ve had them for a couple of weeks. Dentures can be a bit more uncomfortable. The bulkiness, excessive saliva, soreness, and irritation are common complaints. Although you will get used to your dentures after a couple of months, the fact that dental implants are a permanent part of your mouth typically makes them a more comfortable option.
Cost
The price of dental implants varies, depending on how many additional procedures you need to undergo. It’s also important to note that your insurance can pay up to 50% of the cost of your dentures, whereas dental implants are much less likely to be covered under your dental insurance plan. However, given that dentures tend not to last as long, you should factor in the expense associated with replacing them. That could make dentures more expensive than dental implants in the long run.
What’s the verdict on dentures vs. dental implants?
Although dentures are a serviceable missing-tooth replacement option, dental implants’ permanence and natural look make them a great choice. Of course, you must consult with a dentist before you decide on dentures vs. implants.
DISCLAIMER:
The content has been made available for informational and educational purposes only. Dental House Group does not make any representation or warranties with respect to the accuracy, applicability, fitness, or completeness of the content.
The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional personal diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your dentist or another qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a dental or medical condition. Never disregard professional advice or delay seeking it because of something you have read or seen on the Site.
Services we mentioned:
More Dental Articles
Stuck Between A Smile And A Hard Place? We Can Help Complete Your Journey
Is SmileDirectClub’s bankruptcy leaving your teeth alignment process stranded? As Invisalign Diamond providers, Dental House Group…
How to Take Care of Your Baby’s Teeth
Even though baby teeth will eventually fall out, keeping your baby’s teeth clean is key to healthy adult teeth. As a parent, you may have…
A New Year’s Resolution for Dental
There’s just something about a new year. It’s a fresh start, a clean slate, a new beginning… Ok, I think you get the idea. But really, the…
6 New Year’s Resolutions to Improve Dental Health
Taking steps to improve dental health is a critical part of overall fitness. The new year is the perfect time to design resolutions for e…