Dentures vs Dental Implants: Which Is Right For You?

Are you exploring your tooth replacement options but just can’t figure out which procedure would be right for you? You’re not alone.

On one hand, dental implants sound like a fantastic choice, yet the long healing period and financial commitment often give people pause.

On the other hand, you have dentures, which are a much faster and more affordable way to restore your smile but are also not permanent and require an adjustment period. Make the process easier by checking out this short blog post to learn everything you need to know about dental implants and dentures! 

What Are Dental Implants?

Dental implants are a type of artificial tooth made from:

• Metal post
• Abutment
• Dental crown 

The metal post is inserted into the jaw bone and is the root of the construction. After your implant surgery, you’ll need to wait around six months for the bone and other tissues to fuse to the implant. Once that happens, the abutment and dental crown are added on top to complete the restoration.

What Are Dentures? 

Dentures are one of the oldest types of dental prosthetics we have! They are a set of artificial teeth designed to help patients with severe tooth loss or dental damage restore their smile.

Dentures can replace the entire row of teeth, or they can be designed for a partial arch restoration. The prosthetic also includes gum tissue, making it a great option even for patients who’ve experienced gum retraction. 

Key Differences Between Dentures and Implants

Dentures and implants differ quite a bit.

• Restoration extent: Implants will replace teeth one by one, which is why they’re usually an option to replace a few missing teeth only. Patients with more serious dental problems will be better suited for dentures.
• Jawbone support: Dental implants help stimulate the bone and prevent the jaw from shrinking, providing long-term oral health support, which dentures do not. 
• Candidacy: Dentures can be a great option even for patients with other dental issues, gum problems, and even jawbone shrinkage. Dental implants, on the other hand, have much stricter criteria.
• Maintenance: Once completed, a dental implant will look and behave like a natural tooth, so you’ll care for it as such too. Dentures involve an adjustment period because they are removable.
• Cost: Dentures are the more affordable option, and you don't have to wait for them that long. On the other hand, given the long-term support implants provide, they are a more cost-effective investment.

So, Which One’s for You? 

Both implants and dentures can be great ways to get a healthy and stunning smile, but if you really want to know which one’s for you, then you need to talk with our Bowling Green dental team about your options.

Request a visit to Precision Dental online or call us at 270-715-9214 if you have more questions about our tooth replacement procedures.

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