Are dentures better or worse than implants?

Zirconia Permanent Denture Characterized in Our In House Lab in Fort Worth, TX
Request an Appointment Now

Are dentures better or worse than implants if you are missing all of your teeth?

Dentures and dental implants both have their own advantages and disadvantages, and which one is considered better depends on a person's individual needs and preferences. We want to outline the information you need to make a great decision for how to improve your oral health in Fort Worth, TX.

Full Dentures are a removable prosthetic device used to replace missing teeth. They are typically made of acrylic resin or a combination of acrylic resin and metal. Affordable Dentures are an economical solution for replacing missing teeth and can be fitted to match the natural color of a person's teeth. They are also easy to clean and maintain and can be adjusted or replaced as needed so that you can maintain your oral hygiene and improve your smile.


Cons

However, they have several disadvantages as well for denture wearers. They can cause discomfort and irritation, especially when they don’t fit properly. They can also slip or move around in the mouth, causing difficulty with speaking and eating. Dentures can also be damaging to the remaining teeth and gums, causing irritation and pain.

Dental Implant Advantages

Dental implants, on the other hand, are a permanent solution for missing teeth. They are titanium posts that are surgically placed into the jawbone to support a dental crown or bridge. Implants mimic the feel, function, and appearance of natural teeth, and can last a lifetime with proper care. They also help to preserve the jawbone and prevent bone loss, which is a common problem with dentures.


Dental Implant Disadvantages

However, dental implants are a more expensive option compared to dentures and require surgery and a longer recovery time. They also require a strong and healthy jawbone for placement, which may not be feasible for some people. Furthermore, dental implants need to be cleaned and maintained just like natural teeth, which can be challenging for some people.

Bone Graft

Also, sometimes we need to do additional procedures to make sure we have enough bone for dental implants to make them lost for the long term. Sometimes we will do a bone graft procedure to help support the implant. Your doctor will address this in your treatment plan. They will also go over the different types of dentures and implant options available as well. So that whether you choose a partial denture, a removable denture or a fixed denture they can help you pick the best options for you.

In other words both dentures and dental implants have their own pros and cons, and the choice between the two depends on a person's individual needs and preferences. Factors such as cost, recovery time, and comfort level should be considered before making a decision. It is always recommended to consult a dental professional for an evaluation and to discuss the best options for replacing missing teeth.


Limitations

Dentures are artificial teeth that can replace missing or damaged natural teeth. While dentures can restore a person's ability to bite and chew properly, they come with a number of disadvantages that can impact a person's quality of life. Some of the most common disadvantages of dentures include:

  1. Uncomfortable fit: Dentures can cause discomfort and irritation in the mouth, especially if they do not fit properly. This can lead to sore spots and even sores in the mouth.
  2. Difficulty speaking: Dentures can cause difficulties with speech, especially if they are not fitted correctly. Some people find that their dentures slip and move when they speak, making it difficult to articulate words correctly.
  3. Eating limitations: Dentures can limit the types of foods a person can eat, especially if they are ill-fitting. People with dentures may need to avoid certain foods that are hard or sticky, which can cause the dentures to become dislodged.
  4. Poor esthetics: Dentures can have a noticeable appearance, which can impact a person's self-esteem and confidence. Some people feel self-conscious about their dentures and may avoid social situations as a result.
  5. Maintenance and replacement: Dentures require regular maintenance and cleaning, and they need to be replaced every few years as they wear down or become damaged. This can be costly and time-consuming, and people with dentures may need to take time off work or other activities to have their dentures repaired or replaced.
  6. Adjustment period: Getting used to dentures can take time and be a difficult transition, especially for people who have never had dentures before. People with dentures may experience discomfort and awkwardness while they get used to the new sensation in their mouth.
  7. Staining and discoloration: Dentures can become stained and discolored over time, especially if they are not cleaned properly. This can impact the esthetics of the dentures and make them less appealing to look at.
  8. Bone loss: When natural teeth are missing, the jawbone that once supported them begins to shrink and deteriorate. This can cause the dentures to become ill-fitting and uncomfortable, requiring them to be adjusted or replaced more frequently.
  9. Allergic reactions: Some people may develop allergic reactions to the materials used in dentures, such as the resin or metal clasps. This can cause itching, swelling, and other symptoms that can be uncomfortable and disruptive.
  10. Denture adhesives: Some people use denture adhesives to help keep their dentures in place, but these adhesives can be messy and difficult to remove. They may also cause skin irritation and other health problems if they are not used correctly.

Dentures are a great option when they are the only option but they do have limitations. If you are considering dentures, it is important to weigh the pros and cons carefully and talk to your dentist about the best option for your needs.

Why Implants?

Dental implants provide a sturdy base for dentures to rest on, making them a popular choice for patients who want to improve their denture stability and comfort. Traditional dentures mainly rely on suction to stay in place, while dental implants are sturdy and attached to the bone to help the denture stay in place.  This significantly reduces the slipping and sliding that can occur with traditional dentures, allowing people to eat, speak, and smile with confidence.

Advantage

Another advantage of combining dentures with dental implants is that they can help to prevent jawbone loss. Traditional dentures can cause the jawbone to shrink over time as it no longer receives stimulation from the roots of missing teeth. Dental implants, on the other hand, are designed to mimic the function of tooth roots and stimulate the jawbone to prevent shrinkage.

Appearance

Additionally, dental implants can improve the overall appearance of dentures. With traditional dentures, the base can sometimes show through the gums, creating an unnatural look. Dental implants, however, are hidden below the gums and provide a more natural appearance. The dentures themselves can also be designed to be more aesthetically pleasing, as they no longer need to be designed to accommodate for slippage.

Benefits

Overall, dental implants offer a number of benefits that make dentures a better choice for many people. From improved stability and comfort to better aesthetics and jawbone health, they provide a more comprehensive solution for those who have missing teeth. Dental implant placement is considered a surgical procedure and a thorough medical history evaluation should be completed.



Read More On This Topic

Request a Denture Consultation

Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.