Teeth-whitening is Not Just for Women

Replace Your Missing Teeth: Traditional Dentures Or Implant-Supported Dentures

by Dianne Rodriquez

If you have lots of missing teeth, you may be considering dentures. However, implant-supported dentures are another option that are growing in popularity. If you're ready to improve your smile, learn the difference advantages and disadvantages to each type of denture.

Cost

When it comes to cosmetic dental procedures, the cost can easily get out-of-control, and if you're like most people, cost is a major factor in your decision-making process. The truth is that traditional dentures cost significantly less than implant-supported dentures. Depending on the quality, dentures can range from $300 to $5,000 for an entire set, and they usually come with a warranty. Implants-supported dentures, on the other hand, have an average cost of $34,000 for an entire set.

When considering the cost, however, don't just consider the initial cost. Think about the long-term cost too. Dentures last a long time, but they don't last forever. On the other hand, with proper care, implants can last the rest of your life. If you're still young, a one-time payment of $34,000 could end up costing you less than several payments of $5,000 to routinely replace your dentures.

Procedure Length

If you're looking for a fast solution, implants are not the answer. Implants require several steps, including removing the tooth, placing a bone graft, placing the implant and then placing the denture. After each step, you have to wait months for the area to completely heal before you can move on to the next step.

Dentures are much faster than implants, even if you choose conventional dentures, which require crafting in a lab. If you want even faster results, immediate dentures can be placed as soon as your teeth have been removed. If you do choose conventional dentures, however, the fit may need to be perfected, but they usually fit the first time. If you choose immediate dentures, you may need a new pair after the area has healed, so they continue to fit properly.

Durability

When it comes to durability, nothing beats implants. Implants fit directly into your jawbone, which gives them as much durability as your natural teeth. You can continue to use your implant-supported dentures exactly how you would your natural teeth. The best part is that the titanium roots actually bond to your jawbone; this increases the stability of the hold, but it also stimulates your jawbone, preventing it from atrophying.

Traditional dentures sit on top of your gums, which makes them much less stable than implants. They are also not as strong as implants. With traditional dentures, you will have to stop eating some foods, such as those that are hard to chew or sticky.

Ease of Use

Anytime you go from having missing teeth to a full set of teeth, there is a learning curve. Whether you choose implant-supported dentures or traditional dentures, you'll have to readjust to having teeth. However, the learning curve is longer with traditional dentures. This is because they are not permanent, so they tend to move when you eat and talk, but implants remain stationary.

Cleaning, however, may actually be easier with traditional dentures because they can be removed. If you get food stuck under your dentures, simply remove them and rinse them off. With implant-supported dentures, it is still possible to get food stuck between the denture and the gums. However, since you can't remove the denture, you'll need special floss to remove the debris. This can be quite painful on your gums and difficult if you don't have the special floss you need.

The choice is up to you, and both types of dentures have their own advantages and disadvantages. You'll need to weigh all the pros and cons to decide which one is perfect for you. For more information about dentures, contact a local dentist or denture clinic and schedule a consultation. 

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