Dentures vs. Dental Implants

When the need to replace lost or damaged teeth arises, patients in Edmonton have a few options, and two of the most popular are dentures and implants.

Why People Get Implants or Dentures

Dentures and implants both serve the same purpose: to replace missing teeth. They allow patients to chew food, they support facial muscles by restoring the natural jaw shape, they can improve speech, and many of our patients report feeling more confident and less self-conscious about their appearance.

Why Choose One Option Over the Other

Other factors will determine which of the two options is best for you because they have the same end goals. Price, preference and the health of your jawbone and remaining teeth are among them.

Advantages of Implants

One significant advantage of implants is that they do not require much special care. Regular dental care is required to maintain your implant(s); brushing at least twice a day and flossing daily will keep your implant clean alongside your natural teeth. Another benefit is that dental implants are a more permanent solution, so patients in their 60s and younger may prefer implants because they can last for decades (provided they are well cared for).

Some find that dental implants provide better chewing and comfort than dentures do.

Disadvantages of Implants

Implants are generally more expensive than dentures, which may be one of the reasons why patients prefer dentures over implants. Another issue is that implants require a certain level of bone density to be affixed to a patient's jaw, so if you have previously experienced bone loss, they may be an unsuitable option for you.

Implants are also potentially subject to a number of health complications including infection and mechanical problems, such as loose posts or cracked crowns.

Advantages of Dentures

When compared to implants, the most obvious advantage of dentures is that they are less expensive. They also work much better for people who have lost bone in their jaws or who are unwilling to undergo the more invasive treatments and procedures required to install a dental implant.

For these reasons, some patients are more likely to prefer dentures to implants.

Disadvantages of Dentures

Dentures are less permanent and removable than implants. Dentures must also be cleaned on a regular basis. Dentures must be removed after eating and should be brushed in order to be cleaned (which should be done daily). You may also need to brush away any adhesive that has remained on your gums. You should also avoid wearing your dentures overnight. While you sleep, soak your dentures in water or a special cleaning solution.

Another thing to be aware of is that your mouth changes over time. Your dentist will have to periodically refit your dentures to accommodate for this. Implants are permanent, and will typically not require this.