Both traditional dentures and dental implants serve the same purpose and allow the patient to eat and speak naturally. Each has its own advantages and disadvantages so it is important to review your options with your dentist to make sure you understand each process and what is involved and to make sure your dentist understands your goals and concerns.
For patients who need to replace a significant number of missing teeth, traditional dentures are usually the first thing that comes to mind but dental implants are a great choice for those who are a candidate for implants. The patient’s individual case will greatly depend on their ability to receive dental implants and endure the surgery and extensive healing time. There are factors that need to be taken into consideration when deciding which treatment path you want to take such as the price of each treatment option, your oral and overall health, and of course, your personal preference.
Dental implants are a permanent dental prosthesis and require sufficient bone structure for proper support so not everyone is a candidate for dental implants. A traditional denture is a removable dental prosthesis that can be placed regardless of how much jaw bone structure is available.
What is the procedure for dentures and dental implants?
Traditional Dentures
Your dentist will begin the process for traditional dentures by taking a simple impression of both the upper and lower jaw which is then used to make a stone model of your whole mouth. The model is sent to the dental lab that will fabricate a temporary denture for you to wear while your final denture is being made.
The temporary denture is placed on and your dentist will examine how you bite and the alignment of your upper and lower jaw to make sure that the length of the teeth in your new denture is appropriate for your individual case. If any adjustments need to be made to the alignment or the length of the teeth, your dentist will make those adjustments and notify the dental lab before your final denture is fabricated.
The denture will be made of an acrylic base matching the color of your gum tissue and porcelain teeth. Dentures are made to be a natural-looking dental restoration and are held in place using suction and retention. When necessary, an adhesive may be used as well.
Dental Implants
Dental implants are a screw-like post that is surgically placed into your jaw bone. Sufficient bone structure is necessary to support the implant but in the event that there is not enough bone, you may be able to have a bone graft before the implant is placed. A dental implant is placed by an oral surgeon or periodontist. Implants are most often made out of titanium but for patients with metal allergies, zirconia implants are also a great option!
During implant surgery, the doctor will begin by making a small incision in the gum tissue and then drill a small hole into the bone. They will then secure the implant in the bone and suture the gum tissue back together. A small portion of the implant will be left protruding through the gum tissue; this is the part that attaches to the dental prosthesis.
A temporary abutment, or healing cap, is placed on the exposed portion of the implant to protect it from damage and infection for the duration of your healing time, which can take up to six months. During this time, the implant will fuse with your jaw bone to form a secure foundation for your restoration. Once the implant is healed, the artificial tooth or other implant prosthesis is placed using an abutment to attach it to the implant.
Cost of Dental Implants and Dentures
Dental implants are more expensive than other restorative treatment options, costing between $1600 and $2200 per tooth. Dentures are less expensive, running about $1600 per arch.
Risks Associated With Dental Implants and Dentures
Dental implants are safe and effective for most patients who need to replace missing teeth. Implants have a success rate between 95% and 97%, but there are complications that can arise as with any surgical procedure. A mechanical problem such as a loose implant or cracked implant crown can happen as well as infection at the implant.
The most common problem with dentures is most often fit and comfort. If the denture does not stay in place, it can shift around in the mouth, resulting in friction that can cause sores on the gum tissue, making the denture uncomfortable to wear. Prolonged use of a denture can also lead to jaw bone deterioration, causing the denture to become ill-fitting. It will need to be adjusted or, eventually, replaced with a new denture.
Care and Maintenance of Dentures and Dental Implants
A dental implant does not require special treatment and should be brushed and flossed just like your natural teeth. In the event that your implant becomes damaged, your dentist will be able to replace a broken crown or abutment but your implant doctor will need to address any issues with the actual implant. Once a year, you should visit your implant doctor for a check up on top of your regular visits to your dentist for professional cleanings and exams.
Denture care is a little more involved. A removable denture should not be worn while you sleep so before bed, brush them thoroughly to remove any food particles and debris; they should then be placed in a cup of water or a special cleaning solution and left to soak overnight. If you experience changes to your bite, your denture may need to be realigned or adjusted to fit better.
If you are missing a significant number of teeth, it is important to discuss your goals and concerns with your dentist before choosing a treatment plan. Dental implants are more expensive but will last significantly longer than a denture so, typically, are more cost-effective in the long run. Any restorative treatment is an investment in your overall health so make sure that you gather as much information as possible to make an educated decision.
Implants are more comfortable and stable and patients that need to have a full arch on one or both arches replaced may consider an implant-supported denture. Other alternatives to dentures and dental implants are available if neither is right for you such as bridges and partial dentures. Your dentist can help determine what option will best serve you and your needs.