When it comes to replacing missing teeth, the choice between dental implants vs. dentures can be difficult. Both options can give you back a full smile and make everyday activities like eating and speaking easier. However, there are some key differences between the two. In this blog, we will share everything you need to know about these restorative dentistry services to help you better decide which one is best for you based on your needs, lifestyle, and budget.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Between Dental Implants vs. Dentures
When deciding between dental implants and dentures, you should consider factors that make them different from each other. For example, think about their:
- Cost of dental implants vs. dentures
- Longevity
- Comfort
- Maintenance
Then, consider your own budget, lifestyle, and long-term dental health goals. This way, you can make an informed decision which works best for you. To help you with the process, we have summarized dental implants vs. dentures in the table below.
| Factor | Dental Implants | Dentures |
| Cost | Higher initial cost but cost-effective long-term | More affordable but may require frequent replacements |
| Longevity | Over 20 years, sometimes a lifetime | 5 to 10 years |
| Comfort | Feels like natural teeth, fixed in place | Feel bulky or slip |
| Appearance | Look and feel like real teeth | Restore your smile, but may not look as natural |
| Bone Health | Stimulate bone growth | No bone stimulation, may lead to bone loss |
| Maintenance | Easy to care for (brushing, flossing) | Daily removal and special cleaning solutions |
| Surgery & Healing Time | Surgery needed; several months for healing | No surgery; quicker solution |
| Lifestyle | No dietary restrictions | May limit certain foods |
| Durability | Highly durable, can withstand tough chewing | Less durable, may break or wear down over time |
| Jawbone Preservation | Preserve jawbone and prevent shrinkage | Does not support jawbone, leading to shrinkage |
| Convenience | Permanent, no need for special cleaning | Removable, requires extra care |
Everything You Need to Know about Dental Implants
In the past few decades, dental implants have become very popular among those who are looking to have new, healthy and white teeth. Implants are small titanium posts that are placed into the jawbone, acting like the root of a natural tooth. After some time, the implant bonds with the bone, and then a crown (a fake tooth) is attached on top to create a full, functional tooth.
Longevity
Dental implants are known to last a long time. This is what makes them a go-to option for many. With proper care, they can even last 20 years or longer, sometimes for a lifetime. As mentioned earlier, the implants bond with the bone, making them very strong and stable over time.
Cost
Dental implants are more expensive upfront than dentures. Implants can cost several thousand dollars per tooth. However, because implants last much longer, they may be more cost-effective in the long run. Plus, there are many ways to help you in financing dental implants you can benefit from.
Advantages
- Permanent solution: Once placed, implants are there to stay. You don’t have to remove them or worry about them moving around like dentures.
- Natural look and feel: Implants feel like your real teeth, so they’re more comfortable and don’t affect how you eat or speak.
- Jawbone health: Implants help keep your jawbone strong because they stimulate bone growth.
Possible Drawbacks
- Higher cost: This method can be very expensive, which is a concern for many people.
- Surgery is required: Getting implants involves surgery, which takes time to heal and can be uncomfortable.
- Time commitment: The process of getting implants can take several months, as it takes time for the implant to bond with the bone before the crown can be added.
Maintenance
Dental implants are easy to maintain. You take care of implants just like your natural teeth; just brush and floss daily and visit your dentist regularly. It’s like having natural teeth!
Everything You Need to Know about Dentures
Made of acrylic, metal, or a combination of both, dentures are removable appliances used to replace missing teeth. They fit over your gums to help you chew, speak, and smile again. Dentures can be made to replace just a few missing teeth (partial dentures) or an entire set of teeth (full dentures).
Longevity
Dentures do not last as long as dental implants. They usually need to be replaced every 5 to 10 years. Over time, the shape of your gums and jawbone changes, which can cause dentures to become loose or uncomfortable. Therefore, you’ll need to replace them with new ones.
Cost
Compared to implants, dentures are way more affordable, making them a popular choice for people on a budget. However, because dentures need to be replaced more often, you may spend more over time compared to the one-time cost of implants.
Advantages
- Affordable option: Dentures are less expensive than dental implants, which makes them more accessible to many people.
- No surgery required: Unlike dental implants, dentures do not require surgery. This makes them a quicker and easier solution for tooth replacement.
- Custom-fit: They are custom-made to fit your mouth, giving you a complete smile.
Possible Drawbacks
Less stability: Dentures can slip or move around in the mouth, especially when talking or eating. This can make chewing harder and cause discomfort.
Bone loss: They don’t stimulate the jawbone, which can lead to bone loss over time.
High-Maintenance: You need special cleaning solutions to clean your dentures and should soak them overnight. They can also break if dropped or handled roughly.
Unnatural Appearance: You won’t have a natural smile as much as you do with implants.
Maintenance
Dentures need a bit more care than dental implants. You have to take them out daily to clean and soak them in a special solution overnight. You’ll also need to brush your gums and any remaining teeth to keep your mouth healthy.
Get High-Quality Dental Implants and Dentures with Us!
Whether you choose dentures or implants, our dentists are here to help! At Woodbridge Smile Centre, we offer both services in the best way possible! Please get in touch with us for more information.
Final Word
As we discussed throughout this blog, whether dental implants vs. dentures are suitable for you depends on your special criteria. You only need to consider what works best for your needs. Then, you can make an informed decision about which one will restore your smile and improve your quality of life.
At Woodbridge Smile Centre, our experienced dental team is here to help you make the best choice for your smile. You can share your needs and goals with us, and then we’ll help you find out which service works best for your dental condition. Please contact us today to explore your options to achieve a healthier, more confident smile!
FAQs
Are there any health conditions that would make one option better than the other?
Yes, some health conditions can influence whether dental implants or dentures are a better option. For example, if you have significant bone loss in your jaw, implants may not be possible unless you undergo a bone graft. Conditions like uncontrolled diabetes, smoking, or autoimmune disorders can also affect healing after implant surgery, making dentures a safer option.
What is the recovery time like for dental implants compared to getting dentures?
After implant surgery, it can take several months for the implant to fully bond with your jawbone (called osseointegration), which is essential before placing the final crown.
How long do you go without teeth when getting implants?
On average, the process from surgery to receiving the permanent implant can take 3 to 6 months. Many dentists provide a temporary solution, such as a removable partial denture or a temporary crown, so you won’t be without teeth for the entire process.
What is the best age for dental implants?
There is no specific “best age” for dental implants, but they are recommended for adults whose jawbones have fully developed, typically by the age of 18. They have good overall health and sufficient bone to support the implant.
