Dental Implants vs. Dentures: Which Treatment Is Right for Me?
Many patients select dental implants or dentures to restore function and structure of their smile. Dental implants are artificial tooth roots that are surgically screwed into the jawbone. Conventional dentures are supported by bracing against the gums and underlying bone.
In Brooklyn and Brooklyn Heights, NY, Dr. Kevin Trotter offers innovative, top-quality solutions for replacing lost teeth. Let’s compare removable dentures to implant-supported dentures so you can determine which option might be right for you.
Dental Implants
Dental Implants are the gold standard for tooth replacement. A dental implant is made of a titanium post and a porcelain crown or full denture. Implants are meant to last for many years with proper oral hygiene and aftercare.
Dental Implant Pros
Dental implants rarely need replacement. With proper care, and in the absence of injury and disease, they can last a lifetime. Because implants are secured in the natural jawbone, they stimulate the jaw to retain its bone density. Without tooth roots, the jaw naturally begins to deteriorate. The distance between the chin and ear is reduced, so the face changes shape and looks older.
Osseointegration, or attachment of healthy bone to a dental implant, occurs naturally following dental implant placement. Implants actually become part of the body.
Implant-supported dentures (such as the All-on-4® system) uses multiple implants to secure a full set of dentures. The titanium screws bear the weight of the dentures and distribute the pressure of biting and chewing, so the dentures feel lighter and more comfortable.
Dental Implant Cons
Initially, dental implants cost more than dentures. However, implants are an investment that can pay dividends in the long run. While dentures must be replaced and refitted, dental implants may last for the rest of your life.
Dentures
Humans have worn dentures in one form or another for thousands of years. Once made of animal bones, modern dentures are developed with acrylic, nylon, porcelain, resin, or metal. The base is usually made of acrylic, nylon, or metal, and the finished appliance can be indistinguishable from natural teeth.
Denture Pros
Dentures are typically less expensive than implants, at least at first. If you are on a budget, dentures may be a quicker and less expensive fix for missing teeth.
Relining adds material to the part of the denture that rests on the gums. Relining is necessary to ensure proper fit. Over time, dentures weigh on the jawbone and natural bony ridges become smooth. Relining helps remold the fit of the dentures as your mouth changes.
There are two relining options:
- Hard Reline: Lasts about five years, but takes longer to complete.
- Soft Reline: Less expensive and more comfortable but doesn’t last as long as hard relining.
Denture Cons
The average life of dentures is 5-8 years. Dentures will need to be remade and relined eventually to fit your ever-changing facial structure, so they don’t look out of place or bulky.
Improperly fitted dentures can result in mouth sores from friction. Sores make eating, speaking, and even smiling uncomfortable.
Using a strong denture adhesive (or having implant-retained dentures) will keep food and debris from slipping into the space between the gums and denture lining. When the seal between gums and denture lining isn’t good, the food, debris, and bacteria that enter the space can cause bad breath, gum disease, and even fungal infections (oral thrush).
Book a Consultation
Dentistry at The Heights offers dentures as well as dental implants. Our team is always happy to answer questions. We want you to feel confident in the choice you make for replacing your natural teeth. To learn more, contact our practice online. You can also reach our Brooklyn, NY, office by phone at (718) 625-2116.
