Dental Implants vs. Dentures

It may seem like there are very limited options for your smile when you are actually missing teeth. Fortunately, dentistry has come a long way from just “pulling out teeth” to actually doing everything we can to try and save the tooth first. My mum told me back in our country over 50 years ago, whenever they had a toothache, the problem tooth would simply just be pulled out. Done, end of story, no questions asked - and this was the norm! Thankfully, with modern dentistry, we often do everything that we can possibly do (and afford) to try and save our teeth. Sometimes, this isn’t always the case, so it’s important to understand what choices are available to you for repairing your smile if you are missing teeth. Dentures and dental implants are two of the most widely used alternatives. There are significant distinctions to take into account while deciding between the two options which we will go through in this article.

Dental implants are a long-term solution for tooth loss. They are made up of dental crowns fastened to a titanium post that is placed into the jawbone. With the right maintenance, implants are extremely durable and can endure for decades. They are a popular option for individuals seeking a strong, natural-looking solution because they also appear and perform like real teeth. Unlike dentures, they aren’t able to be removed.

Dental implants also aid in stopping any additional jaw bone loss which is one of its greatest benefits. The bone around the lost tooth may eventually start to degenerate. The bone is stimulated by dental implants, which also aid to maintain its strength and density. Additionally, implants can aid in preventing the surrounding teeth from shifting, which can eventually lead to issues with your bite and dental alignment.

Dentures are removable dental prosthetics used to fill up tooth gaps. They are made out of artificial teeth that are joined to a metal or plastic framework that covers the gums. Depending on the number of teeth you are missing, you can either get a complete or partial denture.

Dentures have the advantage of costing significantly less than dental implants. Additionally, they don't involve any surgical procedures and are non-invasive. For people who have several missing teeth or who are unable to have implant surgery owing to health issues, lack of bone density or cost factors, dentures can be a great alternative.

In saying this, dentures do have certain drawbacks. They may slip or move around in the mouth, which can be uncomfortable, particularly when speaking or eating. As the shape of the jawbone changes over time, they may also need to be replaced and require routine adjustments.

As always, a consultation and discussion will be best to determine what’s right for you. The amount of missing teeth you have, your overall dental health, your budget, and your way of life are all things to take into account when exploring options. 

Dental implants are often the preferable option if you're searching for a longer-lasting, natural-looking fix and prepared for the upfront expenses. In saying this, dentures might be a more sensible choice if you have several missing teeth or are unsuitable to have implant surgery.

In any instance, it's crucial to talk about your possibilities and options with your dentist and pick a course of action that accommodates your particular requirements and objectives. With the appropriate care, you can have a beautiful, healthy, and functioning smile.