Dentures vs. Dental Implants: Which is Better?

Both dentures and dental implants serve as a solution for lost or failing teeth. Their effectiveness, however, varies quite greatly. This article addresses the benefits and disadvantages of each, to help you determine which dental solution is right for you.

Dentures

Pros:

Lower Initial Cost: With an average cost of $1800 in the US, dentures are certainly the more affordable option. However, this lower initial cost comes with greater expenses over time. Due to the bone loss that occurs over time, denture wearers are at greater risk of harmful bacteria entering the bloodstream and causing health problems that may be costly to treat later on. Denture wearers should also factor in the price of replacing their dentures every 2-10 years.

Cons:

Slippage: Dentures are not strongly affixed to the jaw and can slip during activities such as chewing or talking. This can sometimes cause embarrassment and inconvenience for the wearer.

Rubbing Against the Gums: Dentures rest on the gum line and can cause irritable rubbing against the gums. This rubbing can escalate the rate of bone loss in the jaw.

Uncomfortable Adhesive: Most dentures use a liquid adhesive to keep the denture fixed in the mouth. Many denture wearers describe this adhesive as “intrusive” and “uncomfortable.”

Lack of Bite/Chewing Force: Dentures only restore up to 25% of a patient’s original bite force. The adhesive and material used in dentures often isn’t strong enough to withstand strong pressure.

Food Restrictions: Due to lack of bite force, denture wearers are unable to eat many types of foods. Not only does this restrict quality of life, but also affects the variety of nutrition in one’s diet, sometimes leading to malnutrition.

Lack of Taste: An upper denture covers the palate of the mouth, which blocks food from touching certain taste buds. The result is a blander eating experience, sometimes even causing loss of appetite.

Bone Loss: When teeth are extracted and not replaced, the jawbone and gums beings to resorb. This often results in a change of facial appearance, creating a “sunken” look.

Health Risks: The jaw and gums act as a natural barrier between invasive bacteria and the bloodstream. As bone loss and gum loss occur, harmful bacteria can enter the bloodstream and cause problems such as clots, stroke, diabetes, and heart disease, among many others.

Dental Implants 

Pros:

Bone Preservation: When teeth are extracted and dental implants are placed, the implants go through a natural process of fusion with the jawbone known as osseointegration. This helps preserve the bone and prevent resorption, which is important for long-term health and facial appearance.

Strong Bite/Chewing Force: Dental implants help restore up to 85% of original bite force, allowing patients to eat almost any type of food. This has great benefits for quality of life and nutrition.

Fused With the Bone: Since dental implants fuse with the bone, the prosthetic teeth have no risk of slipping or rubbing against the gums. They feel very similar to natural teeth. And without risk of slippage, dental implant recipients are often more confident when eating, talking, and socializing.

Permanent: Dental implants made with titanium and prosthetic teeth made with zirconia are designed to last a lifetime. If well cared for, a patient may never need a replacement.

Cons:

Higher Initial Cost: The cost of dental implant surgical fees and materials can be costly. However, as mentioned earlier, this investment in a permanent solution can help prevent costly treatment for health problems later in life.

Dentures vs. Dental Implants: Table of Pros & Cons

Parting Words

Dental professionals recommend dental implants over dentures to patients suffering from tooth failure. Dentures are generally only recommended when a patient simply cannot afford to cover dental implant costs. They may also be recommended when a dentist considers a patient ineligible for implants due to severe bone loss. However, specialists skilled in the placement of zygomatic implants may still be able to provide implants to patients with severe bone loss. If financing options are within your means, dental implants are generally a superior long term investment.