Life can be tough for our patients who are missing most or all of their teeth. Eating and speaking can be extremely difficult, and the effect that missing teeth have on a person’s self-esteem cannot be discounted either. At American Dental, we generally recommend one of two options for replacing an entire mouth full of teeth: dentures or dental implants. Read on to find out more about the benefits of each option to help decide which one is best for you.
What are Dentures?
A set of dentures are false teeth attached to an acrylic resin base, held in place using suction and denture adhesive. Dentures can be used to replace all your teeth, or an appliance can be created to fit around any existing teeth.
What are Dental Implants?
In a dental implant procedure, one or more titanium posts are anchored into the bone tissue of the jaw. Once the implant site heals, dental crowns that mimic the appearance and function of your natural teeth are affixed to the posts. Dental implants can be used to replace individual teeth, multiple neighboring teeth with a crown and bridge, or to affix a denture-like appliance known as an all-on-four implant to replace all your teeth.
The Functionality of Dentures vs. Dental Implants
While both dentures and dental implants are effective at replacing multiple teeth, dentists generally prefer implants over dentures. That’s because dentures can potentially fall out when eating, speaking, or participating in other activities. Dentures also tend to wear out more quickly than dental implants, which can last 30 years or more if they are cared for properly.
Health Benefits of Dental Implants vs. Dentures
One major advantage of dentures over dental implants is that they do not require surgery. This is perfect for patients who do not have enough healthy jaw bone tissue to anchor the titanium posts used for dental implants, or who may have difficulty recovering from surgery. Dental implant surgery is a serious procedure that requires a healing time of 4-6 months before crowns and other appliances can be installed. In addition, dentures can be removed each day for thorough cleaning.
On the other hand, dental implants actually replace your tooth roots, stabilizing the jawbone and preventing any further degradation of the surrounding bone tissue and muscles. Dentures may also allow food to get trapped between the denture and your gums, which can cause problems if not cleaned properly.
Cost of Dental Implants vs. Dentures
Between these two options, dentures are almost always more affordable. For patients who need a whole mouth full of teeth replaced, dental implant surgery can be quite expensive. Although some insurance plans cover a portion of the cost, the remaining expense can still be significant. If you only need one tooth replaced, you may want to prioritize the better functionality of getting an implant. It is also important to note that all-on-four procedures are usually more affordable because they require fewer titanium posts to be placed.
Dentures and Dental Implants in Chicago
If you are interested in getting dentures, dental implants, or all-on-four implants in Chicago, the team at American Dental can help you! Call (773) 729-6040 or click the “Make an Appointment” button to find out which one of our 8 Chicagoland locations is most convenient for you and schedule your consultation today.