Dental implants vs. dentures: procedure & cost

A brand-new smile can make a big difference in your day-to-day life and make basic tasks like chewing and speaking easier. But if you have missing or broken teeth, there are a number of tooth replacement options to consider, and it can be overwhelming to decide which is right for you.

If you’re only missing a single tooth, you may need to choose between a dental implant vs. a crown. But if you’re missing a row or a full mouth of teeth, fixed full arch dental implants or dentures may be a more appropriate solution. Learning more about the differences between fixed full arch dental implant treatment and dentures can help you make a more informed decision about which makes the most sense for your oral health needs and budget.

What are the main differences between dental implants and dentures?

Dental implants are a longer-lasting tooth restoration solution than dentures. A fixed full-arch implant restoration consists of three main components: the implants (titanium posts), the abutments (which connect the implants to the prosthetic), and a custom-made set of artificial teeth). Dental implants are reliable and lead to natural-looking and high-functioning teeth that can last a lifetime.

Dentures are an artificial, removable set of teeth. They rely on suction to stay in position but can slip out of place while chewing or speaking and sometimes require adhesives to stay secure. Dentures are a shorter-term solution to dental restoration compared with dental implants and need more regular maintenance and replacement.

What is the process of getting dental implants vs. dentures?

Both dental implants and dentures can typically be completed in a few steps. Before you get either implants or dentures, you’ll attend a consultation with your dentist to determine the most appropriate treatment plan based on your oral health and history.

If you get fixed full arch dental implant treatment, here are the steps to expect throughout the process:

1. You’ll undergo any pre-implant procedures, like tooth extraction or bone grafting, so that the mouth is prepared for fixed full arch dental implants. You may need a recovery period after these procedures to allow the mouth to heal before dental implant surgery.
2. Your oral surgeon will strategically place multiple titanium implants into the jawbone to serve as artificial roots for the full-arch restoration.
3. Over several months, the bone will fuse with the titanium implants through a process called osseointegration, creating a strong and stable foundation for the prosthetic teeth.
4. A custom full-arch prosthesis will be securely attached to the implants, resulting in a natural-looking, fully functional smile.

Here are the steps for getting dentures:

1. Your dentist will take measurements of your top and bottom arches and any existing teeth to create a custom-fitted denture.
2. If your natural teeth need to be removed before placing or fitting dentures, your dentist will perform a tooth extraction.
3. Your dentist will send the measurements to a lab to create the dentures.
4. The dentures will be placed and fitted in your mouth. Your dentist will make adjustments so that they fit correctly.

Are dental implants more cost-effective than dentures?

While dental implants may have a higher initial price point, they tend to be more cost-effective in the long run. Dental implants require less ongoing maintenance and are more durable than dentures, reducing out-of-pocket expenses to care for your artificial teeth. Dentures may have a cheaper starting price, but they need to be replaced every few years, and in between replacements, dentures might require costly repairs. Dentures also come with some added costs, like specialty cleaning solutions and dental adhesives to hold the teeth in position.

Are fixed full arch dental implants worth the investment?

Though the initial investment in fixed full arch dental implants may be higher than that of dentures, dental implants offer several benefits over dentures, like durability, longevity, and stability. Dental implants can also protect the jawbone and lessen the risk of bone loss, preserve facial structure, and give you a renewed sense of self-confidence, making them a worthwhile choice for many patients.

The bottom line

If you need a whole new smile, fixed full arch dental implant treatment and dentures are two popular solutions. Dentures may be a viable option if you’re looking for a low upfront price, but the ongoing costs of maintenance, replacement, and extras could add up over time and set you back more than you expected. Dental implants come with a higher initial investment, but with proper care, they can last a lifetime. Consult your dentist to make the best choice for your oral health needs.

Contact Information:
Name: Sonakshi Murze
Email: [email protected]
Job Title: Manager