Dentures vs. Dental Implants: Which Tooth Replacement Option is Right for You?

Losing one or more teeth can impact not only your smile but also your ability to eat, speak, and maintain overall oral health. Fortunately, modern dentistry offers several effective tooth replacement options to restore your smile. Among the most popular solutions are dentures and dental implants.

Choosing between dentures and dental implants can be confusing, as both have unique benefits and considerations. This guide will help you explore these options so you can take the right step toward a healthy, beautiful smile.

What are Dentures?

Dentures are designed to replace missing teeth and improve the overall appearance and function of your smile. They are usually made from acrylic resin and sometimes include metal components for added strength. 

Dentures can replace a few missing teeth, known as partial dentures, or all the teeth in either the upper or lower jaw, called full dentures.

There are also immediate dentures, which are placed right after tooth extraction to provide a temporary solution while the gums heal. Dentures help improve chewing, speech, and facial appearance, but they require proper care and occasional adjustments to ensure maximum comfort. 

Although dentures are generally more affordable than other options, they may need to be replaced or relined over time as your gums and bone structure change.

What are Dental Implants?

Dental implants are a permanent tooth replacement solution that involves surgically placing a titanium post into the jawbone, which acts as an artificial tooth root. Over time, this post fuses with the bone through a process called osseointegration, providing a strong and stable foundation for a crown, bridge, or denture.

Unlike dentures, dental implants look, feel, and function much like natural teeth. They help preserve jawbone health by preventing bone loss that occurs after tooth loss. 

Although the implant procedure requires a longer healing period and a higher initial investment, implants offer durability, improved chewing ability, and a natural appearance that can last for many years with proper care.

Comparing Dentures and Dental Implants

Function and Stability

Dentures are removable and may sometimes shift while eating or speaking, which can affect your comfort and confidence. Dental implants are securely anchored into the jawbone, providing a stable and natural feel similar to real teeth.

Comfort

Dentures can cause soreness or irritation in the gums and may require adjustments over time. Implants, on the other hand, integrate with the bone, eliminating pressure on gums and offering greater comfort.

Longevity

Dentures need to be replaced or relined every 5 to 10 years due to changes in the mouth’s structure. Implants are designed to last many years, often a lifetime, provided you take proper care and follow-up appointments.

Maintenance

Dentures require daily removal and cleaning, along with special care for the gums. Implants can be cared for like natural teeth with regular brushing and flossing.

Cost

Dentures usually have a lower upfront cost but may incur ongoing expenses for maintenance and replacement. Implants have a higher initial cost but often prove more cost-effective over time due to their durability.

Who Is a Good Candidate for Each Option?

Dentures are often recommended for individuals who have lost multiple teeth and may not have enough healthy jawbone to support implants. They can be a good choice for those seeking a more affordable and non-surgical solution or for patients with certain medical conditions that make surgery risky.

Dental implants are ideal for those with good overall oral health, sufficient jawbone density, and no underlying health issues that could interfere with healing. Candidates should be committed to maintaining good oral hygiene and regular dental visits. Implants offer a long-term and more natural solution but require surgery and a longer healing period.

Choose Auburn Centre Dental for Your Dental Procedure

If you are looking for professional dental implants or Dentures in Waterloo, Auburn Centre Dental is your trusted partner. 

Whether you are considering dentures for an affordable and convenient option or dental implants for a permanent solution, Auburn Centre Dental provides expert care in a friendly and welcoming environment. Take the first step toward restoring your smile by scheduling a consultation with us today.