Do you feel self-conscious about your missing teeth and are looking for the best solution? You might have heard about dentures and dental implants, but which one is the right choice for you?
Here’s a quick rundown of both options. Dentures are removable false teeth that stick to your gums, while dental implants are permanent artificial teeth that are surgically placed into your jawbone. The choice between the two depends on your preferences, budget, and overall oral health.
Both options have their advantages, so make the right decision depending on your dentist’s advice, personal needs, and preferences. To acquire a better understanding, read ahead!
WHAT ARE DENTURES?
Dentures are like your personal tooth makeover. They are removable oral devices made of porcelain, plastic or both and can effectively replace missing teeth. You can get them custom-made to fit your unique smile.
Dentures fill in the gaps, and you can take them off at your convenience or whenever you want. If you are looking for a solution to revamp your smile, they can be a great choice for you. This oral treatment helps people bring back their smiles and ability to chew comfortably, all without giving up the functionality of their teeth.
WHAT ARE DENTAL IMPLANTS?
Dental implants are considered a popular and effective option for replacing missing teeth. They are surgically placed in the jawbone, where they serve as the roots of the missing teeth. They are usually crafted from titanium material.
Dental implants are biocompatible and can fuse with the jawbone through a process called osseointegration. This allows the implants to provide a stable base for the attachment of artificial teeth, such as crowns, bridges, or dentures.
PROCEDURE FOR THE PLACEMENT OF DENTURES
Dentures are a removable option for replacing missing teeth, regardless of the amount of bone present in your mouth. They come in two main types. One is complete Dentures. These replace all the teeth on either the upper or lower jaws. Another option is partial dentures: These are designed to replace a few missing teeth.
HERE’S HOW THE PROCESS OF PLACEMENT OF DENTURES TYPICALLY WORKS:
1. Before making dentures, your dentist will take impressions of your upper or lower gums or both if you need a complete set. Additionally, they can also access your bite and the alignment of your jaws to ensure the dentures will allow for optimal chewing and speech.
2. Then, a preliminary set of dentures is crafted in a lab and sent to your dentist. These dentures are placed in your mouth for assessment. Any necessary adjustments to the alignment or length of the teeth are made at this stage.
3. After adjustments, a final set of dentures is produced. These dentures are carefully crafted to resemble natural teeth and gums.
4. Dentures are held in place with a special adhesive that bonds them to your gums. This ensures they stay securely in place during daily activities like eating and speaking.
PROCEDURE FOR PLACEMENT OF DENTAL IMPLANTS
Implants are a popular choice for tooth replacement, especially among relatively older individuals who do not want the hassle of removable oral devices.
HERE’S HOW THE PROCESS GENERALLY WORKS:
1. Before getting implants, there needs to be enough bone in the jaw to support the screw-like implants. These implants will serve as the foundation for the replacement teeth.
2. If there is a damaged tooth root, it will first be removed. Afterwards, a small hole is carefully drilled into the jawbone.
3. Next, a metal prosthetic root, called a post, is placed deep into the jawbone. This post acts as a sturdy anchor for the replacement tooth. This post is then left to integrate with the bone for some time. This process is known as osseointegration.
4. After a few months, when the post and bone have integrated, an abutment is attached to the top of the post. This piece serves as a connector between the post and the final replacement tooth.
5. The last step involves attaching a custom-made crown to the abutment. This crown is designed to look and function like a natural tooth. That will also match the surrounding teeth for a flawless appearance.
COMPLICATIONS
Both of these dental procedures come with some sort of complications that you must be aware of to make an informed decision for your oral health:
1. COMPLICATIONS FOR DENTURES
When it comes to dentures, the most common problems are more related to day-to-day use. Some people might find that their dentures do not stay in place as securely as they want. This eventually leads to some discomfort. Another common issue is the development of sores or ulcerations on the gums, which can be a bit bothersome.
2. COMPLICATIONS FOR DENTAL IMPLANTS
Dental implants are generally safe and effective for replacing missing teeth, but like any medical procedure, they can have some complications. Research suggests that complications may include things like infections and mechanical problems, such as posts becoming loose or crowns cracking. However, these issues are not extremely common. According to a study, dental implant failures can only happen about 5 to 10 per cent of the time.
In a nutshell, both dentures and dental implants can have their own set of challenges, But they are generally safe and effective solutions for missing teeth. However, if you ever experience any issues, it’s always a good idea to check in with your dentist. This is because they can make necessary adjustments and ensure your comfort.
COST OF DENTURES VS. IMPLANTS
Dental implants are relatively expensive compared to dentures and other options like bridges. Nevertheless, their costs can vary depending on factors like where the dentist is located. On average, an implant can range from $1,600 to $2,200 per tooth.
On the other hand, the cost of a full set of upper dentures is a little over $1,600. And for complete lower jaw dentures, it is somewhat the same.
So, in simple terms, getting dental implants can be more expensive than opting for dentures. So, it is essential to consider your budget and the specific needs of your situation when deciding on the best tooth replacement option for you.
HOW DO I CHOOSE DENTAL IMPLANTS AND DENTURES?
Choosing between dental implants and dentures involves considering various factors, including your oral health, lifestyle, budget, and personal preferences.
HERE’S A GUIDE TO HELP YOU MAKE THE RIGHT DECISION:
1. ORAL HEALTH
- Dental Implants: Ideal for individuals with good overall oral health and sufficient bone density. They provide a stable and long-term solution.
- Dentures: Suitable for individuals with various oral health conditions, including those with some bone loss. Dentures are more forgiving of existing oral health issues.
2. BUDGET
- Dental Implants: Generally more expensive upfront, but they are considered a long-term investment in oral health.
- Dentures: Typically more budget-friendly initially, making them a cost-effective option for some individuals.
3. PROCEDURE AND RECOVERY
- Dental Implants: Involves a surgical procedure and a healing period. The process may take several months to complete.
- Dentures: Generally quicker to obtain. The adjustment period is shorter, and there’s no surgical recovery.
4. COMFORT AND CONVENIENCE
- Dental Implants: Mimic the feel and function of natural teeth. They are stable and don’t require removal for cleaning.
- Dentures: They may take some time to get used to, and some people may experience minor discomfort initially. They are removable for cleaning.
5. AESTHETICS
- Dental Implants: Provide a natural and aesthetically pleasing appearance, as they are designed to look like real teeth.
- Dentures: They look realistic, but they may not feel as natural as implants.
END WORDS
Dental implants and dentures can both serve as effective solutions to lost or missing teeth. However, choosing between two of them can be a daunting task. Hence, before coming to any conclusion, assess your oral needs, budget, and preferences.
By keeping all these factors in mind, you can make a better choice for the vitality of your smile. Also, have a thorough discussion with your oral care provider, as they know what’s best for you.
