Dental Implants vs. Dentures: The Pros and Cons
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Nothing shows the passage of time better than our smile. Over the years, we lose healthy teeth, and there’s no stopping it. But fortunately, modern dentistry, like a skilled magician, has a few tricks up its sleeve that not only “cheat” time but also restore the former aesthetics to our smile and functionality to our teeth. Among such “tricks” are the installation of implants and dental prostheses. Let’s explore the advantages of these constructions and discuss what is better, implants or dentures, in this article.
What’s the Difference Between Dental Implants and Dentures?
Before we delve into the differences between such constructions and compare who is better in the showdown of dental implants vs dentures, let’s understand what these orthopedic constructions are and what tasks they perform.
What are implants?
These are non-removable single options for tooth replacement. Implants are installed instead of each lost tooth and consist of a titanium rod with a dental crown made of zirconia or metal-ceramic. They are fixed in the jawbone tissue and functionally and aesthetically replace lost teeth. They can be installed at the age of 25, 30, 40, and even after 60, 70, and 80 years.
What are dentures?
These are removable orthopedic structures that can fully compensate for the entire dental arch in the upper and lower jaw or partially restore the dental arch in the form of dental crowns or plates. This method of prosthetics is most often suitable for patients who have lost a significant number of teeth.
Pros and Cons of Dental Implants
Implantation is a relatively new method of restoring teeth; however, it is considered a leader in the field of prosthetics. In the comparison of dental implants vs dentures, tooth implantation has numerous advantages that make it a sought-after service. And here’s why.
Pros of Dental Implants:
- They practically restore the functionality of teeth – you can chew actively and enjoy your favorite food without harming the gastrointestinal tract.
- They look beautiful and noticeably enhance the smile.
- They do not need to be removed, as implants have a non-removable structure.
- They have a long service life – up to 20 years or longer.
Cons of Dental Implants
- Require a healing and integration period of up to 6 months, sometimes longer.
- In cases of insufficient jawbone volume, they require preliminary intervention – surgical bone augmentation. Only after that can the implant be inserted.
- The cost of implants is several times higher than that of removable dentures.
Pros and Cons of Dentures
As for dentures, they are time-tested constructions, familiar to many, and are considered a classic option for tooth replacement in older age.
Pros of Dentures
- They are installed in 2 visits to the dentist (excluding preparation).
- Restore the aesthetics of the smile.
- Cost much less than implants.
- Allow budget-friendly restoration of the dental arch, even if all teeth are lost.
Cons of Dentures
- Provide up to 20% of the chewing load due to design features.
- Require fixation with special adhesive, otherwise they may shift in the oral cavity.
- Require storage in a special solution.
- Require systematic replacement due to wear.
Summarizing the features of the constructions, let’s add the main nuances to the comparative table:
| Type of construction | Advantages | Disadvantages |
| Dental Implants | They look beautiful and restore the functionality of teeth – you can actively chew and enjoy your favorite food.They noticeably transform the smile.They do not need to be removed, as implants have a non-removable structure.They have a long service life – up to 20 years or more. | The complete installation period can take up to 6 months, and sometimes longer, as it is important for the structure to integrate properly.In cases of insufficient bone tissue, bone volume augmentation may be required – a surgical procedure.High cost compared to dentures. |
| Dentures | Custom-made and installed in 2 dental visits.Restore smile aesthetics.Cost much less than implants.A budget-friendly option for restoring the dental arch. | May not be convenient for enjoying favorite foods as they provide up to 20% of the chewing load compared to natural teeth.Require fixation with special adhesive, otherwise may shift in the oral cavity.Require storage in a special solution.Require systematic replacement due to wear and odor absorption. |
Implants or Dentures: Which is Better for You?
Of course, in this matter, we advise you to consult your dentist for a professional answer to this question based on your indications. However, whether dental implants or dentures are better for you is a decision only you can make. In fact, such options are considered interchangeable despite significant differences in installation methods and benefits. Here are a few nuances to consider when choosing the right option.
Prosthetic Timeframes
If you want to achieve a beautiful smile in the shortest possible time (for example, for your granddaughter’s graduation or your son’s wedding), then a removable denture is your optimal option. However, if you plan to get implants, keep in mind that the entire process can take from 6 to 12 months.
Aesthetic and Functional Preferences
From the standpoint of beauty, functionality, and round-the-clock convenience, implants are considered the frontrunners in the race between dental implants vs dentures. They allow for a full smile, speaking, and eating favorite foods without alternatives like purees.
Number of Missing Teeth
If you have a minimum number of missing teeth, implants can quickly solve your problem. However, when it comes to the absence of all (or nearly all) teeth in the dental arch, both options are suitable. The difference will only be in the timing and cost of prosthetics.
Budget and Insurance Options
As mentioned earlier, one implant is installed in place of one tooth. And when a significant number of teeth are lost, the installation of a considerable number of implants is necessary (or, alternatively, the All-on-4 system). Since the installation of one implant costs several thousand dollars, dentures have a clear advantage in terms of budget. Therefore, make your decision taking into account your financial capabilities and insurance policy conditions.
We hope this information will help you determine the type of prosthesis and make an informed decision. You can also schedule a consultation at our clinic to learn more about prosthetic options and receive professional advice based on the health of your oral cavity.
Dental Implants versus Dentures: the Most Common Questions
Which is cheaper dentures or implants?
Removable dentures are much cheaper than implant installation.
Do implants look better than dentures?
Yes, that’s true. Despite progress in the field of orthopedic dentistry and improvements in the aesthetics of dentures, the aesthetics and functionality of implants are much higher than those of removable dentures.
Is it easier to eat with dentures or implants?
Favorite foods are much more comfortable with implants. The thing is, dental implants are functionally similar to natural teeth, so they provide almost identical chewing pressure, just like your natural teeth. However, with removable dentures, it’s different – they allow you to chew food with a load of up to 20% of the chewing pressure you’re used to with natural teeth.
Additional Resources
Dentures – ADA, American Dental Association
Implants – ADA, American Dental Association
