Implants vs Dentures: A Comprehensive Guide

It can be more than simply a cosmetic issue when one or more teeth are lost. It may affect your speech, eating habits and may even negatively impact your self-confidence. Fortunately, dental care has grown significantly in the past years, and you now have several good options to get your smile back. And the two most popular options are dentures and dental implants.

We collaborate closely with patients at Dr. Patrick’s Dental Clinic in Pondicherry to learn about their needs and assist them in selecting the best course of action. We’ll examine both therapies in greater detail in this blog, weighing the benefits and drawbacks to help you determine which could be best for you.

Small titanium posts called dental implants are inserted into the mandible to act as artificial roots. They become a solid base for crowns, bridges, or dentures after they osseointegrate, or fuse with the bone.

1. Feels and Looks Natural: The appearance and functionality of implants are quite similar to those of natural teeth.
2. Long-Term Solution: They can survive for at least 15 to 25 years with proper care.
3. Prevents Bone Loss: They aid in maintaining bone structure because they are affixed to the jaw.
4. Stability: The implants remain in place without slipping or shifting.

1. Less Affordable: Dental implants price is more than dentures. Minor surgery and recovery time are included in the surgical procedure.
2. Not suitable for everyone: Additional treatments may be necessary for certain patients. For example: Bone grafting.

Dentures are removable oral devices (false teeth) designed to replace missing teeth and surrounding tissues. They can be complete (covering the entire upper or lower jaw) or partial (replacing only a few teeth).

1. Affordable: Generally speaking, dentures are less expensive than implants.
2. Non-Invasive: No operation is necessary.
3. Faster Turnaround: Dentures are often available in a few weeks.
4. Custom suit: Made to improve appearance and suit your mouth.

1. Mobility: If poorly fitted, the dentures can move around in your mouth.
2. Daily Maintenance Required: They need to be cleaned and maintained so on a regular basis.
3. Lack of Jawbone Support: Over a period of time, dentures may fail to stimulate the jawbone which might result in bone loss.
4. Limited Lifespan: Every several years, they can require modifications or replacements.

When deciding between implants and dentures, consider the following factors:

1. Your Health and Age: Due to its endurance, implants are frequently preferred by younger, healthy people. Dentures could be a safer option if you have health issues that impact bone health or healing.
2. Density of Bone: A robust jawbone is necessary for implants. Additional procedures, including grafting, can be required if there is bone loss; alternatively, dentures might be the more straightforward choice.
3. The budget: Although implants are more expensive initially, they can end up being more economical in the long run. In the beginning, dentures are less expensive, particularly when replacing the entire arch.
4. Comfort and Lifestyle: Do you want a permanent solution that feels like your real teeth? You might be a good fit for implants. Would you rather have something detachable and non-surgical? You might look better in dentures.

When it comes to what works for your teeth, there isn’t a single solution for everyone. Dentures and dental implants both have many advantages; the key is to determine which one best suits your comfort, lifestyle, and health as stated in this article.

At Dr. Patrick’s Dental Clinic, we prioritize the needs of our patients. Our staff will compassionately and clearly guide you through your options, whether you’re thinking about dentures, implants, or a mix of the two. Book a consultation now or contact our clinic to receive expert guidance in your decision.