Deciding how to replace your missing teeth can be confusing, especially when you first begin to look at your options. For patients missing most or all of their teeth, the two basic options are removable, traditional dentures and dental implant-secured dentures. Both options will help hold the shape of your face and improve the appearance of your smile.
But besides that, the two options have many significant differences. When reviewing the pros and cons of each, it is important to take into consideration which aspects are important to you and your overall quality of life.
Dr. Jacob Grapevine is an implant dentist in Plano, TX that offers removable dentures and many types of denture implants. To learn which type is best for you, schedule a consultation with him where he can perform an examination of your entire mouth and overall health.
What are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are fake tooth roots that hold replacement teeth. They look and work like real teeth. The parts of a dental implant include:
- The Post: We place a small metal post (usually titanium) in your jawbone to act like a tooth root.
- Abutment: We place this connector piece once the bone heals around the post.
- Restoration: We attach a crown to the abutment.
Implants can replace a single lost tooth or support a bridge or denture. We can also use as few as four implants to replace a lost tooth arch.
What makes implants special is how they prevent bone loss in your jaw and let you eat all your favorite foods without worry. Whether you’re missing one tooth or all of them, implants can give you back a smile that looks and works just like natural teeth.
What are Dentures?
Dentures are tooth replacements that can replace multiple missing teeth or full tooth arches. Partial dentures fill in gaps when some teeth are missing. Full dentures replace all your teeth (upper, lower, or both). They rest on your gums and stay in place with suction or adhesive.
Dentures are made from different materials depending on the type. The false teeth are usually made from tough plastic (acrylic) or porcelain. Porcelain looks more natural but can wear down faster.
The base of the dentures look like gums. This part is most often made from pink acrylic plastic to match your gums. Some have a metal framework for extra strength. Partial dentures can have metal clips to help them grip your real teeth.
Dental Implants vs Dentures in Plano, TX
Many missing teeth will undoubtedly affect how you look and feel about yourself. Both removable dentures and implant-secured dentures will allow you to smile with confidence again.
Dental Implants
Thanks to advances in dental technology, dental implants have become significantly popular over the years. They offer a very high success rate and a high overall satisfaction rate. Many dental professionals even confess that they are the next best thing to natural teeth.
The benefits of dental implants in our office include:
- High success and satisfaction rate
- Look, feel, and function like natural teeth
- Replaces teeth at the root which helps prevent bone loss
- Permanently holds the shape of the face
- Less food restrictions and better nutrition
- Fixed so they will not slip around in the mouth or fall out
- Allow for better speech
- If properly cared for, they can last forever
- Easier to take care of compared to removable dentures
- Better for overall and oral health
Dentures
For many years, dentures have been the standard teeth replacement option. They are typically made of acrylic and sit snugly over the gums but must be removed daily for cleaning. Dentures are generally better than having no teeth. Traditional dentures also cost less than implant treatment.
With dentures:
- Patients can eat and speak better than they could without teeth
- Cosmetic dentures now look every similar natural teeth
- They are the least expensive option
- The process only takes about two to six weeks
- Does not require surgery
Should I Get Dentures or Implant Dentures?
Dentures do not replace the tooth root. Because dentures use adhesive, they can slip around in the mouth. Removable dentures can cause slurred speech and can even fall out. They will need to be adjusted often and eventually replaced. Dentures that do not fit correctly can cause sores and infections.
Dentures also have more dietary restrictions compared to implant dentures. You may not eat things like steak, nuts, or chewy and hard foods if you have removable dentures.
Dental implants secure dentures at the root. Implant posts integrate with healthy jaw bone to become new tooth roots. With a new, stable bite, you can bite and chew after you get implant dentures. Once you get used to your new restoration, you can comfortably eat the foods you love.
While implant treatment can cost more than dentures, implants are permanent. Dental implants can also ensure your new dentures last for many years.
Visit Our Office
Dr. Grapevine will help you determine if you are a good candidate for dentures or implant dentures. He will thoroughly examine your teeth, gums, and jawbone structure to assess your oral health. Based on his findings, he will clearly explain all of your tooth replacement options so you can make an informed decision.
If you suffer from a compromised bone structure, the All-on-Four technique may be an option for you. This innovative approach uses the available healthy bone in your jaw to anchor four specially placed dental implants. These implants then securely hold a natural-looking denture in place. The All-on-Four method provides a stable and long-lasting alternative for patients who might not qualify for traditional implants due to bone structure issues.
Learn More About Implant-Supported Dentures
Dr. Grapevine offers many options for patients who wish to replace their missing teeth with dentures supported by dental implants. Please request an appointment with him today. You can also call (972) 449-5759 to learn which option is best for you.
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