Dentures vs. Dental Implants

At our Carbonear dental office, our patients have several options when it comes to replacing lost or damaged teeth. Implants and dentures are two of our most popular choices.

When Do People Need Implants or Dentures?

Dentures and Implants have the same purpose: to replace missing teeth. They give patients the ability to chew food, and support facial muscles by restoring the natural shape of the jaw, they can improve speech, and many of our patients report feeling increased self-esteem and reduced negative feelings about their appearance.

Why Choose One Option Over the Other?

Because they both share the same end goals, other elements you need to take into consideration when determining the best option for your include preference, price, and the health of your jawbone and remaining teeth.

What Are the Advantages of Implants?

One of the biggest advantages of dental implants is that they do not need a lot of special maintenance. Caring for your implant(s) consists of routine dental care: brushing twice a day and flossing daily to keep your implant clean in addition to your remaining natural teeth. Another advantage is that dental implants are a more permanent solution, and so patients in their 60's and younger may prefer implants as they can provide decades of service (provided they are well cared for).

Some patients find that dental implants offer better chewing and comfort than dentures do.

Are There Disadvantages to Implants?

Typically, implants can cost more than dentures, which may be one of the reasons why patients opt for dentures. Another problem is that implants require a certain bone density to be affixed to a patient's jaw, and so if you have previously suffered from bone loss, they might not fit your requirements.

Implants are also potentially subject to a number of health complications including infection and mechanical problems, such as loose posts or cracked crowns.

What Are the Advantages of Dentures?

The most immediate appeal of dentures, when contrasted with implants, is that they tend to be more affordable. They also work much better for individuals who've suffered bone loss in their jaw, and for those who are not interested in the more invasive treatments and procedures required to install a dental implant.

For these reasons, some patients are more likely to prefer dentures to implants.

What Are the Disadvantages of Dentures?

Dentures aren't as permanent as implants and can be removed. Dentures also require special maintenance to keep clean. In order to clean dentures (which should be done daily), you have to take them out once you are done eating to brush them. You might also have to brush away any remaining bits of adhesive on your gums. Also, you shouldn’t wear your dentures overnight. Dentures should be soaked in water or a special cleaning solution while you sleep.

Another thing to be aware of is that your mouth changes over time. Your dentist will have to periodically refit your dentures to accommodate for this. Implants are permanent, and will typically not require this.