Dental Implants Vs Dentures: Which One Should You Choose?

Did you know that nearly 70% of adults between the ages of 35 and 44 years old are missing at least one tooth? That’s a fairly big chunk of the population. This number is even more impactful upon adults over 75 years of age with 1 in 4 missing all of their teeth. 

Teeth play a very important job in a person’s life. They are required for eating, speaking, and expressing yourself. They also have the crucial role of keeping the jawbone healthy. Let’s face it, missing a tooth or multiple teeth can have a big impact on a person’s overall confidence as well. 

If you made your way here because you are missing a tooth or several teeth, we want to let you know that our team is here to support you. We understand that you might have questions that are specific to your case and we would love to address those in person. We also understand that you might want to first learn on your own. This brought us to put together this list of facts to help you understand the differences between two strong options for you: dental implants and dentures. 

Differences Between Dental Implants and Dentures

Dental implants and dentures are two very different treatments. Dental implants are a tooth restoration treatment that replaces a missing tooth root as well as the tooth itself. They are composed of a titanium metal rod that is implanted into the jawbone to serve as a new root. This rod has the ability to support a dental restoration such as a singular dental crown, a bridge, a partial denture, or a full denture. 

On the other hand, dentures are a piece of acrylic plastic that are built to match your natural smile. They are set with prosthetic teeth and are shaped and shaded to match the patient’s gums. There are different types of dentures which range from partial dentures to fully removable dentures. The purpose of partial dentures is to replace several missing teeth. Meanwhile, removable dentures are used to replace one or both arches of the teeth. 

The goal of both of these treatments is the same; to replace missing teeth. They both also offer benefits including protecting the health, appearance, and function of your smile. Even though they share the same goal, these dental treatments are quite different. Below is a list of the top 5 differences between the two of them.

Dental Implants Offer a Natural Feeling

Dental implants go as far as replacing the root of the missing tooth or teeth. This allows them to feel and act as natural teeth. The biocompatibility of the titanium rod goes as far as encouraging jawbone growth. This holds them in place just like natural teeth. Dental implants allow the patient to eat all the foods that are best avoided with dentures. Their strong root security also means that they won’t slip out during meals or while speaking. 

Dentures are a Less Invasive Treatment

The most invasive part of the dentures process is getting dental impressions done. This is a simple and easy process that is done to help create your custom dentures. 

Dental Implants Are The Only Treatment That Prevents Jawbone Loss

The natural tooth root keeps the jawbone healthy and strong. The loss of a tooth also comes with the loss of stimulation to the jawbone to send nutrients to the root. Dental implants are the only tooth replacement option that replaces the tooth root. This means that the jawbone continues to grow around it as it would around a natural tooth root. 

Dentures Require Frequent Adjustments

The bone loss that happens on the jawbone over time from the missing tooth roots means that the shape of the mouth will change. This translates into the dentures having to be adjusted more frequently so that they don’t slip during conversations, eating, or laughing. Removable dentures need to be evaluated annually to check if adjustments are needed. 

Dental Implants Last a Lifetime

Dental implants are designed to last a lifetime due to the unique way that they replace the tooth from the root. This is especially true if you practice good oral hygiene and take good care of your smile. The restoration on top of the implant may require a replacement 10 to 15 years down the road but the root itself should last a lifetime. 

We understand that each person’s situation is unique and that you might have more questions after reading the above details. We would like to encourage you to contact our office and book an appointment with one of our dentists. Our team is well versed in both of the options here and would love to help you restore your smile and confidence.