It’s hard to lose teeth. It can change the way you eat, talk, and even smile. But with today’s dentistry, you don’t have to endure missing teeth forever anymore. Now, there are actually a number of ways to restore your smile and regain your confidence. Dental implants and dentures are some of the more common options offered in restorative dentistry. While each of these options has its own merits and demerits, choosing one largely depends on your lifestyle, needs, and certain aesthetic considerations.
Here in this blog, we will give you an idea of the major differences between dental implants vs. dentures to aid you in making the best choice for your dental health.
What Are Dentures?
Dentures are removable dental prosthetics for missing teeth. They are either full dentures or partial dentures, depending on the number of teeth you’ve lost. Full dentures replace an entire set of teeth, while partial dentures replace lost or missing teeth, while existing teeth remain. Dentures are typically made of acrylic or plastic and are shaped specifically for your mouth. Dentures fit on your gums, and in most cases, your jawbone helps keep them in place by suction, but the partial is continuously kept in by whatever is left of your natural teeth (or teeth to be replaced) with either a clasp, acrylic web, or some other adhesive means.
Advantages of Dentures:
- Tend to be less expensive in the short term than implants
- Can be made relatively quickly
- Good solution for edentulous patients (have lost most or all of their teeth)
Disadvantages of Dentures:
- Can shift or move when speaking or chewing
- May feel chewy or bulky at first
- It will need to be taken out for cleaning
- Will wear down or will need adjusting over time
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are small metal posts placed into your jawbone to act like the roots of missing teeth. Once the implant is in place, a crown (artificial tooth) is added on top. It looks and works just like a real tooth.
Implants are not removable like dentures. They stay in your mouth permanently and fuse with your bone over time, which helps keep your jaw strong.
Pros of Dental Implants:
- Look and feel like natural teeth
- Won’t slip or move when talking or eating
- It can last many years with proper care
- Help keep your jawbone healthy and strong.
Cons of Dental Implants:
- Take more time to complete (may need several months)
- Usually costs more at the beginning.
- Not everyone is a good candidate (you need healthy gums and enough bone)
Key Differences to Consider
Here are some things to think about when deciding between these tooth replacement options, dental implants and dentures:
- Comfort and Fit:
Implants feel more like natural teeth. Dentures might take time to get used to and may shift if not fitted well.
- Maintenance:
Dentures must be removed daily for cleaning. Implants can be brushed and flossed just like regular teeth.
- Durability:
Implants can last for many years, sometimes even a lifetime. Dentures may need to be replaced every 5–10 years.
- Jawbone Health:
Implants help prevent bone loss by stimulating your jawbone. Dentures do not provide this benefit.
- Budget:
Dentures are often less costly upfront. However, implants may save money in the long run because they usually don’t need to be replaced as often.
Talk to a Professional
Choosing between dentures and implants isn’t something you have to do alone. A dentist in Grande Prairie can help guide you through your options and suggest what might work best for your mouth. They’ll take a look at your overall health, budget, and goals to help you make a smart decision.
It’s also important to keep up with regular dental visits, no matter which option you choose. Good oral hygiene and checkups will keep your mouth healthy and help your new teeth last longer.
Smile Confidently with Bear Creek Dental
If you’re thinking about restoring your smile and aren’t sure whether dentures or implants are right for you, Bear Creek Dental is here to help. Our friendly team takes the time to understand your needs and answer all your questions. We believe that everyone deserves a smile they can be proud of.
Let’s make your dental journey a smooth one. Whether you need a second opinion, more information, or just want to know where to start, we’re ready to help you feel confident again. Ready to take the next step toward a better smile? Visit Bear Creek Dental in Grande Prairie today and let’s explore your options together!