Struggling to find the right treatment option for your missing teeth? You are not alone. Hundreds of Australians go through this phase before landing into a suitable choice. However, not everyone gets the desired results, many face the horrors of implant failure. The question arises between the key choices: dental implants versus dentures.
Everyone has unique smile goals which match specific oral treatment options. Just like with dental implants multiple teeth gaps can be filled, dentures can also feel convenient for people losing several teeth in a single arch. If you are overwhelmed with dental implants versus dentures, this blog by Innova Dental is the one for you.
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants procedure refers to surgically inserting a titanium implant into the jawbone before attaching a custom-made crown on top to replace missing teeth. Here, the implant/post acts as the tooth root, the crown as the new tooth, and the abutment as a small connector which provides stability to this arrangement.
A regular dental implants is a permanent solution, therefore it does not require much maintenance. Titanium is the common material used to craft the implant due to its good bone integration capacity and durability. However, one must have good jawbone density to go through this procedure.
What Are Dentures?
Dentures are oral appliances which consist of prosthetic teeth and gum tissues. It is removable and custom-made to blend in the dental arch. Dentures are fixed to either the lower or upper jaw to create a natural-looking appearance.
Several missing teeth on a single arch can create challenges in basic oral functions like chewing or speaking. Dentures are key treatment options to support these functions and enjoy a good quality of oral health. However, it is important to maintain it well to ensure it lasts long. The average lifespan of a denture is 5-10 years.
Dental Implants Versus Dentures: Key Differences
Tooth or gum issues can turn your life upside down. If you can find the winning treatment in the battle of dental implants versus dentures, you are up for long-term clinical success. But how to differentiate? A detailed comparison is below:
|
Feature |
Dental Implant |
Denture |
|
1. Type of procedure |
1. Surgical |
1. Non-surgical |
|
2. Treatment duration |
2. 6 months to 1 year |
2. A couple of weeks |
|
3. Solution type |
3. Permanent |
3. Temporary |
|
4. Comfort level |
4. It’s fixed, hence stays stable and feels natural |
4. It’s removable, hence may feel like it’s slipping away |
|
5. Maintenance and care |
5. Care methods are similar to natural teeth |
5. This is prone to plaque, hence intense care required for lasting results |
|
6. Longevity |
6. Durable, may last a lifetime |
6. Less durable, with good care may last up |
|
7. Cost |
7. Expensive |
7. Cheaper |
|
8. Jawbone Density |
8. Patient must have good bone density |
8. Patients with poor bone density can opt for this |
|
9. Single/ Multiple |
9. Can be done for both single and multiple missing teeth |
9. Can be done for several missing teeth |
|
10. Speech |
10. Normal, as this feels like real teeth |
10. Speech may be affected by poorly made or loose dentures |
All the above-discussed differences highlight unique features of both treatment options. If you know your smile goals, it would not be difficult to find the right one for you. For example, if you are fearful of surgeries but want an aesthetically pleasing smile, go with dentures. But, if you are looking for a deeper bond that goes a long way, you are in for the implants.
Cost Of Dental Implants Versus Dentures
When it comes to cost comparison of Dental Implants versus Dentures, there are two aspects of the same, which includes:
- Upfront cost: This is the expense the patients have to bear during the treatment. It can be the bill along with the cost of scans, and other medical aspects. Dentures are a temporary solution and involve surgical intervention, hence their upfront cost is lower than that of the implants.
- Long-term cost: This refers to the care and maintenance cost for your new teeth or appliance. As implants last long, and sit permanently at your jaw, they are not prone to plaque. Meanwhile, removable appliances like dentures need proper care for lasting results. Hence, the long-term cost of the implants are lower among the two.
Oral Function With Dental Implants Versus Dentures
Both of these treatment options are meant for supporting your oral function. But implants are a clear winner when you prefer eating your food comfortably. As dentures sit on the gum, you may feel like they might slip away. Also, they are not made for heavy chewing or strong bite forces. This feeling will keep you from enjoying your meal wholeheartedly while comparing it to a dental implant, which feels just like a natural tooth. Hence, you can chew just as you like.
As for speaking, implants act like real teeth, letting you speak naturally. However, dentures are removable and sit in your gum, somewhat affecting your speech. If you are not looking for a prompt solution, dental implants will be an efficient choice.
Conclusion
Dental implants versus dentures, this debate will continue to haunt the individuals who are looking forward to replacing missing teeth. But how to find the right one for you? Well, you should focus on your unique goals. Whether it is for medical purposes or cosmetic reasons, this determines which one may work for you.
Then there are other factors like treatment duration, budget, the results you are expecting, etc. which help you to navigate through the rumbles and reach the one that suits you. Innova Dental, one of the key dental practices in Australia, can support your oral functions.
Looking forward to an even smile? Make an appointment with us!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is a denture?
It is a removable oral device to replace missing teeth and the surrounding gum tissues. A denture is custom-made to ensure it aligns with unique teeth and gum. Dentures can last from 5 to 10 years, depending on the maintenance. Innova Dental can support your oral functions through their dentures.
2. What’s cheaper, dental implants or dentures?
In Australia, dentures are a cheaper option compared to dental implants. While the upfront cost for dentures is low, it may require long-term maintenance cost as removable oral devices are prone for plaque. However, if you have a less budget for the treatment, denture is the convenient choice.
3. Why would a dentist not recommend an implant?
Despite being a permanent solution to your dental problems, at times your dentist may not recommend it. Dental implants are not a good choice for people with poor bone density, diabetes, active gum disease, bone loss history, etc.
4. Are dental implants covered by Medicare Australia?
Generally, there is no government funding for dental under Medicare, and Medicare does not provide coverage for dental implants. The only bulk-billing program under Medicare is for eligible children aged 2-17 for general dental services.
5. What is the 3/2 rule for dental implants?
This is a key guideline in the world of dentistry which helps to determine the proper implant size based on the shape of the prosthetic tooth. As per the 3/2 or 3A-2B rule, the post must be placed 3mm apical to the dental crown’s margin. Also, the gap between the implant post and adjacent tooth must be 2mm. Proper placement is the key to long-term oral health.