When you need to replace one or more lost teeth, you have several options, including dentures and dental implants. Choosing the right solution depends on many factors, such as cost, choice and the health of your jaw bones and the rest of the teeth.
Dentures and implants each have their advantages and disadvantages, so it is important to discuss your options in detail with your dentist. It is also worth exploring other denture and implant options, such as dental bridges.
Dentures and implants ultimately serve the same purposes like,
- Help you chew food that you would not otherwise eat
- Support the facial muscles
- Speech improvement
- Increase self-esteem and lower self-awareness by giving you a nice smile
However, there are also significant differences between the two dental solutions. Here are some pros and cons for each approach that should be considered before making a decision.
Dentures Vs. Implants: Procedures
1. Dental implants
The implant needs enough bones for the implant, like a crown-covered screw. According to a 2018 study, they have become increasingly popular in recent years, especially among adults between the ages of 55 and 64.
Dental implants are done before removing the damaged root. Once the root is removed, or if the root has already been removed, a hole is drilled in the jaw bone.
Artificial roots of metal, called post, are implanted deep into the bone. The top of the post will be fitted with a crown, but secure it in place until the bones begin to grow around the post.
It may take a few months before the post-abortion is ready, the piece will be crowned. Abutment is sometimes applied when the post is planted. The final step is the crown – an artificial tooth that matches the surrounding tooth – attached to the abutment.
2. Dentures
Dentures are removable, artificial teeth that can be fitted into your mouth, no matter how big the bone. Dentures can be a complete set to replace all the teeth on the upper or lower jaw or can be made to replace some lost teeth. These are called partial dentures.
The first dentures are made by taking the imprint of the upper or lower gums of the teeth, or if dentures are needed to replace all the teeth. Before making dentures, your dentist will also study your bite and the alignment of your upper and lower jaw to ensure that the length of the tooth allows for optimal chewing and speaking.
The initial set of dentures is then made in the laboratory and sent to your dentist. The dentures will be placed in your mouth and any necessary adjustments in the alignment or length of the teeth will be made before the final set of dentures is ready.
Dentures are made to look like natural teeth and gums, and are held together with a special type of adhesive that attaches to your gums.
Dentures Vs. Implants: Complications
Dental implants are generally safe and effective solutions for missing teeth, but research suggests a number of complications, such as infections and mechanical problems (loose posts, torn crowns). Dental implant failure occurs about 5 to 10 percent of the time.
The most common complications with dentures are:
- Dentures do not live in place
- Gingivitis (ulcers)
- Dentures Vs. Deciding on implants
Dentures Vs. Implants: Costs
Dental implants are more expensive than other treatments such as dentures and bridges. Although prices vary depending on the location of the dentist’s practice and other factors, the American Dental Association (ADA) reports that the cost of an implant can be between $ 1,600 and $ 2,200 per tooth.
The ADA indicates that the average cost of a complete set of upper dentures is a little over $ 1,600, and full dentures for the lower jaw are almost identical.
Dental implant care is similar to the standard dental hygiene for natural teeth. This means brushing, flossing and regular check-ups with a soft-bristle brush at least twice a day.
More daily maintenance is required, however, for dentures to remain functional longer. For example, you should not wear them overnight. During that time, they should be steeped in water or a special cleaning solution.
To clean teeth (which should be done daily), remove and brush after eating. You may need to remove any piece of adhesive that sticks to your gums.
Since your bite changes periodically, the tooth will need to be repaired periodically. Dental implants, on the other hand, are permanent fixtures that may require a replacement crown if the original crown is broken or broken.
