Losing a tooth—or several—can feel overwhelming. Beyond the physical adjustment comes an important question—how should you replace them? Two of the most common options are dental implants and dentures. But which choice is right for you? At Riverside Dental, we’re here to help you make an informed decision that feels right for your unique situation.
Both implants and dentures restore your smile, but they are quite different. Factors like comfort, cost, and lifestyle preferences often guide the decision. Let’s explore the pros and cons of each option so you can feel confident about your choice.
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are a strong and lasting solution for replacing missing teeth. They are tiny titanium posts that a dentist surgically places into your jawbone. Over time, the implants fuse with the bone, providing a solid foundation for replacement teeth like crowns or bridges. The final result is a replacement that looks, feels, and works just like your real teeth.
Advantages of Implants
Why do many patients prefer implants? Here are some of the top reasons:
- Natural Look and Feel: Implants are designed to blend seamlessly with your existing teeth. They’re stable and don’t shift or slip, making them feel like a real part of your mouth.
- Durability: With proper care, dental implants can last for a lifetime. Unlike dentures, which may need to be replaced every few years, implants are an investment in long-term oral health.
- Preserve Bone Health: When you lose a tooth, the surrounding jawbone can weaken over time. Implants stimulate the bone, preventing deterioration that could otherwise alter the shape of your face.
- Easy Maintenance: Caring for implants is like caring for your natural teeth—regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups are all that’s needed.
Important Considerations for Implants
Of course, no solution is perfect. Dental implants aren’t always the right fit for everyone. Consider the following:
- Surgical Procedure: Getting implants requires minor surgery. For some patients, this aspect can feel intimidating. However, it’s a safe and routine procedure.
- Cost: Implants are initially more expensive than dentures. That said, their longevity often makes them a cost-effective choice over time.
- Healing Time: Since implants rely on the bone to fuse with the post, the healing process can take several months.
What Are Dentures?
Dentures are a type of removable appliances that replace missing teeth. They rest on your gums and come in two types—full dentures for replacing all teeth or partial dentures for replacing one or more teeth. Dentures have been a popular way to replace missing teeth for hundreds of years. Modern advancements have made them far more comfortable and natural-looking than they once were.
Advantages of Dentures
Dentures are a popular option for several reasons:
- Affordability: Dentures are generally more wallet-friendly than implants. This is especially true if you need to replace many teeth.
- Quick Solution: Dentures are able to be created and fitted in just a few weeks.
- Non-Invasive: For patients who prefer to avoid surgery, dentures are a non-invasive alternative.
- Customizable Fit: Modern dentures are designed to fit the shape of your mouth, providing a comfortable and secure fit.
Important Things to Consider With Dentures
While dentures work well for many people, there are some downsides to consider:
- Maintenance: Dentures do need to be removed and cleaned daily. They also require special soaking solutions to maintain their shape and integrity.
- Stability Issues: Dentures aren’t anchored like implants, meaning they can occasionally slip or shift, particularly while eating or speaking.
- Bone Loss Over Time: Unlike implants, dentures don’t stimulate the jawbone. This can lead to bone loss, potentially affecting the fit of your dentures in the long run.
- Replacement Needed: Dentures often need to be adjusted or replaced every 5-10 years due to changes in your mouth’s structure.
How to Choose Between Implants and Dentures
Choosing between implants and dentures depends on your unique needs and priorities. To help you decide, think about these important factors:
1. Your Oral Health
Do you have healthy gums and sufficient jawbone? Implants need strong support, so these are essential factors. For those with significant bone loss, dentures may be a better fit unless bone grafting is an option.
2. Comfort and Convenience
Are you looking for something permanent and easy to maintain? Implants mimic the comfort and convenience of natural teeth. Alternatively, if you’re okay with removing your prosthetic daily, dentures may work.
3. Budget
If cost is a significant concern, dentures have a lower upfront price. But if you can invest in a long-term option, implants often prove more economical over time.
4. Lifestyle
Do you lead an active lifestyle or find yourself concerned about social confidence? Implants stay in place no matter what you’re doing, from enjoying a big meal to speaking publicly.
5. Time Commitment
Are you willing to wait several months for the implant process, or do you need a quicker solution? Dentures are faster to achieve full functionality.
Can You Combine Both Options?
For some patients, a hybrid approach works best. For example, implant-supported dentures combine the affordability of traditional dentures with the stability of implants. These dentures snap into place on implant posts, reducing slippage while being removable for easy cleaning.
This could be a fantastic option if you’re looking for affordability without sacrificing too much stability.
Visit Riverside Dental Today
At Riverside Dental, we’re committed to personalized care. We know that every patient has different needs, and we’ll take the time to help you compare implants and dentures. Learning about the benefits and drawbacks of each option can help you choose what works best for your lifestyle, budget, and oral health.
Whether you’re considering a permanent solution like dental implants or a removable option like dentures, you’re in great hands with our experienced team. We offer thorough consultations to ensure you understand all your options. Together, we’ll build a plan to restore not just your smile, but your confidence, too.
If you’re ready to take the next step, we’d love to help. Contact Riverside Dental today to schedule your consultation and start your journey toward a healthier, happier smile.
