Dentures vs. Dental Implants

Two of the most popular options for replacing missing teeth are dental implants or dentures. Today, our Ajax dentists explain the difference.

Why People Get Implants or Dentures

Implants and dentures both serve the same function: to replace missing teeth. They allow patients to restore their smiles and more easily chew and speak. They also help maintain facial structure by providing support to the jawbone.

Why Choose One Option Over the Other

Since they have the same end goals, other factors will determine which of the two options is best for you. These include price, preference, and the health of your jawbone and remaining teeth.

Advantages of Implants

One major advantage of implants is that they do not require much special maintenance. Caring for your implant(s) entails regular dental care; brushing at least twice a day and daily flossing will keep your implant clean alongside 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 provide better chewing and comfort than dentures do.

Disadvantages of Implants

Implants are generally more expensive than dentures, which may be an important consideration to some patients.

Another disadvantage of implants is that they require a certain bone density in order for the implant to properly fuse to your jaw. If you have previously suffered from bone loss you may not be a candidate for implants or you may require additional surgery to graft additional bone to the implant site before the procedure can take place.

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

Advantages of Dentures

The most immediate appeal of dentures in contrast 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.

Dentures may also be a better option if a patient is missing an entire jaw of teeth that would require several implants and extensive dental work to restore.

Disadvantages of Dentures

Dentures are less permanent than implants and are removable. Dentures also require special maintenance to keep clean. In order to clean dentures (which should be done daily), they need to be removed after eating and brushed. You may also need to brush away any bits of adhesive that are lingering on your gums.

Furthermore, 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.