Dental Implants vs Partial Dentures and Full Dentures: Which is Right for You?

If you have one or two missing teeth, you may want a solution that gives you the ability to chew and talk as you did before. Maybe you also want something to boost your confidence and allow you to show off your smile without feeling self-conscious. However, most importantly, dental implants trick your body into thinking you have teeth and so the upper and lower jaw stops shrinking and loses bone! Both dental implants and dentures are options to consider, but there are some differences to keep in mind when making a decision. Here are four major differences between dental implants and dentures.

Cost is one of the biggest factors to consider. Dental implants are more expensive than dentures, in part because they involve surgical procedures. Implants are also a more permanent solution that plays a role in why they are typically pricier than other alternatives like dentures. The cost of dental implants are based on three major stages of treatment. Stage one is the planning, consultation and record taking and this is where we decide how many implants are necessary, what are the best areas to place the implants, what type of implant is best for each patient, and the patient’s particular bone structure. At this stage, a dental implant work-up is complete so we can virtually place the implants without the patient being present. The fees can range from $450.00-$1,250.00. The second stage is the surgical placement of the dental implant and the fee can range between $1,000.00 and $2,000.00 per implant, depending on the type of implant, location of the implant, and the type of surgery needed. The third phase is the placement of the teeth on the dental implant which can snap on, be cemented on, or screwed on and the fee can range between $1,000.00 - $2,000.00. With conventional partial or full dentures, the fee can range between $1,000.00- $2,000.00 per arch or upper or lower jaw.

Speaking of maintenance, dental implants involve less daily care than dentures do. Since implants are held in place by a post in the jawbone, you can take care of them in the same way that you would with original teeth. Stick to your normal, twice-a-day brushing and flossing routine. Dentures require more maintenance because you can remove them. Most dentures cannot be worn overnight and require soaking in a solution while you sleep. You also have to remove dentures to clean them after eating. An important thing to consider is whether you prefer a more permanent solution or don’t mind a more intensive oral hygiene and maintenance routine.

For the most part, dental implants offer a more permanent solution to missing teeth. Dental implants work by inserting a screw-like implant and post into the jawbone. After the gum tissue grows and covers it up, which can take several months, the dentist attaches a crown on top of the post. The result is a more fixed and permanent tooth replacement. Dentures are not as invasive or time-consuming, but they do have to be removed daily. In this case, the decision to choose one or the other depends on your personal preferences and clinical issues.

If you replace a missing or broken tooth, you want to make sure the solution works and feels as normal as possible. Both implants and dentures function similarly to normal teeth, although dentures may be a less stable and secure because they can be removed and will move during function. For the most part, each choice functions well as a tooth replacement. If you have the health and financial means dental implants in most cases are going to be a better solution.

Want to learn more about whether dental implants or dentures are a better option for you? Ascent Dental Care offers both solutions and we can help you determine which one fits your needs and preferences. Schedule an appointment online or call 413-224-1493.