Dentures vs. Dental Implants: Choosing the Right Solution for You
Dentures and dental implants are among the most popular options to replace missing teeth. The right choice for you depends on your budget, personal preferences, and bone density.
Dentures
Dentures are a removable set of prosthetic teeth. To make them, your dentist takes an impression of your teeth and gums, and the impression is sent to a lab where the denture is made.
Here are some benefits of dentures:
Less expensive upfront compared to dental implants (one set of upper or lower dentures costs an average of $1,600)
Removable
No surgery required
Some drawbacks of dentures include:
Can slip out of place while eating or talking
Do not stimulate the jaw bone, leaving the bone to deteriorate and the fit of the denture can become uncomfortable over time
Infection or tooth decay can occur if they do not fit properly
Require more frequent replacement
Require more care and cleaning
Dentures are a great option for people who want to be able to remove their restoration or those with a tighter budget. Dentures may not be an ideal choice for those unable or unlikely to clean and care for them.
Dental Implants
Dental implants are permanent, non-removable tooth restorations that replace one tooth per implant. Here are the benefits of dental implants:
Natural aesthetics
More cost effective over time compared to dentures
Unless complications arise, the implant post will not need to be replaced
Stimulates the jawbone
Low maintenance care and cleaning
Will not slip or fall out
The drawbacks of dental implants include:
More expensive upfront than dentures
Requires sufficient bone density or a bone graft to support implant
Requires invasive surgery
Dental implants are ideal for anyone who wants a natural-looking, low-maintenance restoration. If you have weakened jawbone density, implants can still be possible for you with a bone graft, which will lengthen the overall process.
The best way to determine whether implants or dentures are right for you is to have a consultation with your dentist. Call or stop by Cascade Dental Care today to schedule your consultation!