Dental implants and dentures are both great options for replacing one, several, or all of your missing teeth in The Dalles. But what are the differences between dentures and dental implants, and which one is right for you? Get all the details in this blog from Columbia River Dental.
Understanding The Top 5 Differences Between Dental Implants And Dentures
They may be used for the same purpose of replacing missing teeth, but dental implants and dentures are very different. Let’s discuss the top five differences now, and explain how these procedures differ from one another:
- Cost – Dental implants are much more expensive than both full and partial dentures. They also are not usually covered by insurance. This may make dentures a better option if you are worried about your budget.
- Longevity – Dental implants can easily last 30+ years or the rest of your life with proper care. Dentures usually last between 5-15 years, depending on the type of dentures and how well you care for them. Dental implants also help protect your jaw bone health, unlike dentures.
- Treatment time – It usually takes 1-2 months to fit you for partial dentures or a set of full dentures. In contrast, it takes a minimum of six months to get dental implants, and if you need additional treatments like extractions or bone grafts, it could take a year or longer to get your new teeth.
- Convenience – In general, dental implants require less special cleaning, care, and maintenance compared to dentures. They're typically permanent and non-removable, so there’s no need to remove your teeth to brush and care for your mouth. In contrast, dentures require a bit more adjustment and special care.
- Functionality – Dental implants are fixed in your jaw bone. This means your new teeth will never move or shift. When they fit properly, dentures also rarely shift, but it’s still possible for them to move when you chew, speak, and eat.
Who Is A Better Candidate For Dental Implants?
In general, you’re a better candidate for dental implants if your jaw and mouth are healthy, and you’re only missing a few teeth. This makes treatment simpler and more affordable, since there will be less need for additional treatments like bone grafts.
In addition, good candidates for dental implants will need to have a bigger budget. Dental implants are worth the investment, particularly since they last longer than dentures, but they do have higher up-front costs. We offer financing with both CareCredit and Proceed Finance at Columbia River Dental.
Who Is A Better Candidate For Dentures?
If you’re missing most of your teeth and your jaw bone is not healthy or strong enough for implants, dentures may be a better option. This is particularly true if you’re on a budget, since dentures tend to be much more affordable and are covered by insurance in most cases.
You may also be a good candidate for dentures if you want to replace your missing teeth more quickly. Dentures don’t take as long as implants, so they are a solid choice if you’d like faster results, or if you want to replace your teeth temporarily before you commit to dental implants.
Which Treatment Is Right For You? Find Out At Columbia River Dental
We hope this blog has helped you learn a bit more about the differences between dental implants and dentures. If you’re still not sure which treatment is right for you, the best way to find out is with an appointment with Dr. Jonathan Feller at Columbia River Dental.
As an expert restorative dentist, Dr. Feller can help you explore all of your options for replacing your teeth. Contact us online or give us a call at (541) 296-2581 to schedule a consultation now, and take the first steps toward replacing your missing teeth and restoring your smile.