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Missing teeth affect more than just your smile. They can impact how you eat, speak and feel about yourself. When it's time to replace them, you typically have two main options: dentures or dental implants.
These solutions have important differences in cost, comfort and longevity. The right choice depends on your specific needs, budget and health considerations. This guide will help you understand both options so you can make the best decision for your situation.
What are Dentures?
Dentures are removable appliances that replace missing teeth and surrounding tissues. They sit on the gums and are designed to look like natural teeth. There are two main types of dentures:
Complete Dentures: These replace all teeth in the upper or lower jaw (or both). They rest directly on the gums and are removable.
Partial Dentures: These are used when some natural teeth remain. They attach to the existing teeth and fill in the gaps where teeth are missing.
Dentures have come a long way from the chunky, obvious false teeth of yesteryear. Modern dentures are more natural-looking and comfortable than ever before.
Benefits of Dentures
1. More Affordable Upfront
Dentures are significantly less expensive initially compared to implants. For many Australians watching their wallets, this can be the deciding factor.
2. No Surgery Required
Dental anxiety is real, and not everyone is keen on the idea of oral surgery. Dentures don't require any surgical procedures, making them accessible to those who might be poor candidates for surgery due to health concerns.
3. Quick Solution
Have you ever been in a situation where time is of the essence? With dentures, you can have a complete smile in a matter of weeks, while implants may take several months from start to finish.
4. Suitable for Most Patients
Even if you have significant bone loss in your jaw (which can happen after teeth have been missing for a while), you can still get dentures. Implants, on the other hand, require sufficient bone density.
Disadvantages of Dentures
1. Less Stable Than Natural Teeth
Even the best-fitting dentures can slip or move, especially while eating chewy or hard foods. This can lead to embarrassing situations and food restrictions.
2. Need for Regular Adjustments
As your mouth naturally changes shape over time, dentures will need to be relined, rebased or remade. This means ongoing dental visits and additional costs.
3. Reduced Chewing Efficiency
Denture wearers often experience a significant reduction in bite force—about 75% less than those with natural teeth. This can limit your enjoyment of certain foods.
4. Potential for Bone Loss
Without the stimulation of tooth roots or implants, the jawbone beneath dentures can shrink over time, leading to a sunken facial appearance and changes in fit.
What are Dental Implants?
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Dental implants are permanent replacements for missing teeth that are surgically fixed to the jawbone. They consist of three parts:
The Implant: A titanium post that is surgically embedded into the jawbone and serves as the root of the new tooth.
The Abutment: A connector that attaches to the top of the implant and holds the crown.
The Crown: The visible part that looks like a natural tooth, usually made of porcelain or ceramic.
Unlike dentures, dental implants are fixed in place and aren't removed for cleaning. They function much like natural teeth and can last a lifetime with proper care.
Benefits of Dental Implants
1. Natural Look and Feel
Dental implants are as close as you can get to natural teeth. They're fixed in place, so there's no risk of slipping or clicking sounds while eating or speaking (a common complaint with dentures).
2. Preservation of Jawbone
Here's something many people don't realise: dental implants actually help preserve your jawbone. When teeth are missing, the jawbone can deteriorate over time. Implants stimulate the bone, similar to natural tooth roots, preventing bone loss.
3. Durability and Longevity
Implants are built to last. With proper care, they can last a lifetime, while dentures typically need to be replaced every 5-10 years. It's a classic case of "you get what you pay for".
4. No Special Maintenance
Do you value convenience in your daily routine? Implants are cared for just like natural teeth. So regular brushing, flossing and dental check-ups are all that's needed. No special cleaners or adhesives are required.
Disadvantages of Dental Implants
1. Higher Initial Cost
Let's not beat around the bush—dental implants are expensive. A single implant can cost several thousand dollars, and replacing multiple teeth can add up quickly.
2. Surgical Procedure Required
Implant placement involves surgery, which carries risks like infection, nerve damage and sinus problems (for upper jaw implants).
3. Longer Treatment Time
Getting implants isn't a quick fix. The entire process, from extraction to final crown placement, can take 3-6 months or even longer if bone grafting is needed.
4. Not Suitable for Everyone
Patients with certain health conditions, such as uncontrolled diabetes or severe gum disease, may not be good candidates for implants. Additionally, adequate bone density is required, though bone grafting can sometimes address this issue.
Making Your Decision
When weighing up dentures versus dental implants, ask yourself these important questions:
What's my budget?
If cost is a significant factor, dentures might be more accessible initially. However, remember to consider the long-term expenses of maintenance and replacement.
How important are comfort and functionality to me?
If you want teeth that feel and function most like natural teeth, implants have a clear advantage.
What's my overall health like?
Your general health and the condition of your jawbone will play a significant role in determining whether implants are a viable option for you.
How much time do I have?
If you need a solution quickly, dentures can provide a faster result than the multi-stage implant process.
Both dentures and dental implants have their place in modern dentistry, and neither option is inherently "better" than the other. It all depends on your specific needs, preferences and circumstances.
For many people, a combination approach might be the sweet spot. For example, implant-supported dentures offer greater stability than traditional dentures while being less expensive than a full set of individual implants.
The best course of action is to consult with a dental professional who can assess your specific situation, discuss your goals and help you make an informed decision. After all, when it comes to your smile, you want to make sure you're sinking your teeth into the right option.