Dental implants and dentures are a great way to replace missing teeth. However, if you are still considering one of these methods of tooth restoration and have not yet consulted with specialists, it is natural that you do not know which method is superior and which disadvantages it has. So, the more objective information you gather, the easier it is likely to be to decide what is best for you.
Dental prostheses – what are they?
are artificial teeth used to replace missing teeth. They are usually made of porcelain, special ceramic or acrylic, and are attached to existing teeth or gums. If only a few missing teeth need to be restored, then partial dentures are used, and if all the teeth of the upper or lower row are needed, then full dentures are used.
Partial prostheses usually consist of a framework attached to the remaining teeth, while full arch prostheses are attached specifically to the gums or on implants.
Dental implants – what makes them unique?
Dental implants are artificial tooth roots that are surgically implanted into the jaw. The implant serves as a new root system for the tooth, providing support and more stability. After the implant has hardened, a dental crown or prosthesis is made.
Implants are an extremely favorable method of treatment, as they can replace one or more missing teeth and are a popular alternative to traditional dentures.
If opportunities and health permit, the doctors of the clinic “Dantų estetica” in Kaunas always recommend dental implantation as the main method of treatment.
Advantages and disadvantages of dentures
Arguments FOR dentures:
- Dentures usually cost much less than dental implants;
- Fixed prostheses are as easy to clean as natural teeth;
- Unlike implantation, surgery is not required (unless patients opt for implant-supported prostheses);
- Dental prostheses are made to order, individually for each patient, so they are strong and fit comfortably;
- Fixed dentures do not require glue;
- Overall, dentures are a pretty good option for patients who want a less expensive and less invasive way to restore lost teeth.
Arguments AGAINST dentures:
- Removable dentures can move out of place when eating or talking;
- Again, removable dentures will require more maintenance than implants: for example, the dentures will need to be soaked in a special solution every night;
- The shape of the gums changes approximately every 5-7 years, so the maximum term that removable dentures can serve is up to 10 years;
- Dental prostheses, unlike implants, do not replace the root of the tooth, so the bone tissue of the jaw will begin to disappear over time. And due to changes in the jaw, the shape of the face may also change slightly;
Advantages and disadvantages of dental implants
Arguments FOR dental implants:
- Dental implants are replacements for permanent teeth;
- They both look and feel like real teeth;
- Implants give you more self-confidence because they always stay in place: you can confidently eat and speak;
- Dental implants help preserve the jaw and facial muscles;
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Arguments AGAINST dental implants:
- Implantation requires an operation that will require preparation;
- Dental implants are more expensive than dentures.
Are dentures safer than dental implants?
During dental prosthetics, surgical interventions will not be necessary, so prosthetics is a non-invasive method, the course of the procedure itself is much faster. However, according to the specialists of the clinic “Dantų estetica” in Kaunas, in order to prepare the mouth for prosthetics, some existing teeth may have to be pulled out and ground (although this is done less and less), so oral tissues are less spared during prosthetics.
Dental implantation is currently one of the most popular surgical procedures on the service lists of dental clinics, so doctors have accumulated a lot of experience and can immediately identify whether you are a suitable candidate for dental implantation. And although implants take a long time to heal, they are a one-time solution that can provide excellent results for the rest of your life.
