When it comes to solving the conundrum of missing teeth, most people will think of two options: dentures and dental implants. But which one is the better choice? Let’s look at what the experts have to say on the topic.
Missing teeth can really put a damper on your confidence, but they can also affect things like your speech and digestion. Unfortunately, teeth don’t grow back, so you have to replace them artificially, either with dentures or dental implants. But which one is the better option? Experts say that there are many factors to consider before you decide.
Since you’re probably wondering how much money either choice is, let’s take a look at the price of both options first. Dentures often have lower upfront costs than dental implants, making them more suitable if you’re on a budget. Depending on your preferences and how many teeth you’re missing, you can opt for either full dentures or partial dentures, though the latter can be more expensive.
Despite being cheaper than implants, experts like the team at Dental Lab Direct say that dentures must be replaced as the gums and jaw change - typically in intervals of five to ten years - adding to their lifetime costs.
Additionally, full dentures are not cemented in place and may shift when you eat or speak, causing some discomfort; they may also dull your perception of taste and temperature and reduce your bite strength. However, partial dentures will not create this problem, as they are clipped to existing teeth, so they’re still the most cost-effective choice, especially if you only have a section of missing teeth you want to fill.
One more thing: dentures do not require invasive procedures. If surgeries are a deal-breaker for you, then this is the option you’ll want to go for.
On the other hand, dental implants require extensive oral surgery with lengthy recovery times - patients must wait for the implants to fuse completely with the bone before the crown is attached, a process that can take several months. The procedure is also extremely expensive, with a single tooth implant costing between $3,000 and $7,000. Imagine how expensive a full mouth of implants will be!
As a trade-off, implant posts, which are made of titanium, can last indefinitely and have fewer ongoing maintenance costs associated with them; because they are anchored to the jawbone like natural teeth, they are also more stable and allow for stronger bites.
So, should you pick dentures or implants? It all comes down to your personal preferences. Do you value the long-term comfort and stability of implants? Or would you rather have an inexpensive alternative that can be just as effective at restoring your smile? It’s your call.
If you want a more professional opinion to help you with the decision-making process, many experts believe that dentures are more suitable for individuals with all or most of their teeth missing, while implants may be preferable to those who only require one or two replacements. But again, it’s up to you. No matter what you choose, both dentures and implants are great options for restoring your smile.
