However, the effects of losing one’s tooth go beyond aesthetics. One may experience difficulty in chewing, speech, and even a decrease in self-confidence in various situations. Thankfully, there are different treatment methods used by dentists today, and dental implants and dentures happen to be among the most common treatments.

While both procedures will give an aesthetically pleasing result, there are differences between them. Not only are they dissimilar regarding functionality, but also duration of use and comfort, which will depend on a variety of factors such as oral condition, finances, preferences, and many others. Learning the main differences between these two treatments will allow you to have a more informed discussion with your dentist.

What Are Dental Implants and Dentures?

Tooth implant treatment is a procedure in which a dentist or oral surgeon places small posts, usually made of titanium, into the jawbone. These posts act as artificial tooth roots and provide a secure foundation for replacement teeth. The bone in the jaw may fuse with the implant through a process known as osseointegration, and finally, a connector and the tooth itself are affixed to complete the dental restoration.

The second dental restoration option is dentures. These are devices that can be removed and serve the purpose of replacing either several missing teeth or an entire row of teeth in the patient's mouth. Full dentures replace all teeth, while partial dentures are used when there are still some of the natural teeth left.

How Do Dental Implants Compare With Dentures?

The key difference lies in the manner in which they are fixed. While implants have to be surgically placed in the bone, the conventional dentures simply have to be placed over the gums.

Implants may be easier to use while chewing and speaking since they do not move around like removable dentures. Yet, the process involves undergoing surgery, a healing period, and having adequate bone support.

Conventional dentures are less likely to involve any surgical procedure and can be considered an alternative by patients who wish to undergo an operation-free procedure. Dentures can also be removed for cleaning purposes. Nevertheless, some denture wearers have complained about loosening, painful areas, and adjustments due to changes in the gums and jawbone.

Both solutions cannot be considered universal, and a dental checkup is required in order to determine which treatment should be applied.

Which Option Lasts Longer and Requires Less Maintenance?

In proper conditions, dental implants can serve many decades. Nevertheless, there is always a possibility that it might become necessary to change or repair a crown or another type of dental restoration procedure performed for an implant. It is important to ensure good dental hygiene and visit a dental clinic on a regular basis to decrease the chances of inflammation of implants.

The life of dentures depends on various factors, such as the materials utilized in manufacturing dentures and the quality of fit and condition of the oral cavity. Speaking about maintenance, people have to clean implants as they do natural teeth. As for dentures, people need to remove them daily.

What About Cost, Comfort, and Treatment Time?

Cost is another aspect that is worth considering in choosing one option over another. Dental implants are normally more costly at first since they may require surgical intervention, additional imaging, and other expenses associated with the procedure.

Dentures tend to be cheaper initially and are immediately available under certain circumstances. At the same time, the cost of subsequent relining, repairing, and replacing dentures must be taken into account.

Comfort depends on the person involved since some patients easily get used to dentures, while others need some time to learn how to eat and speak while wearing dentures. Implants also take some time for recovery.

As for those who want to get permanent tooth replacement, implants may prove to be more stable, but it all depends on patients' bone and gum condition, their overall state of health, and willingness to take proper care of the oral cavity. Lit Dental in McKinney, TX, offers a good example of a dental clinic where one can consult regarding missing tooth replacement options. 

Conclusion

Both dental implants and dentures can be used to replace missing teeth; however, each has its own strengths. Implants can be fixed and can last for decades, whereas dentures can be removable and usually cost less.

You should keep in mind several aspects before choosing a permanent tooth replacement, such as your oral hygiene, financial situation, preferences, and so on. Make an appointment with a skilled dentist, and he will help you choose the best method for you.