Dentures | Dental Implants | |
---|---|---|
Cost | $1,000-$3,000 per arch | $3,000-$5,000 per tooth |
Comfort | Can cause sore spots or irritation | More comfortable, feel like natural teeth |
Maintenance | Require daily cleaning and regular adjustments/replacements | Require regular cleaning and check-ups, but no adjustments or replacements |
Durability | 5-8 years on average | Can last a lifetime with proper care |
Appearance | May appear less natural, may slip or shift while eating or speaking | Appear and function like natural teeth |
Missing teeth can make it difficult to eat, speak, and smile with confidence. Fortunately, there are several options available for replacing missing teeth, including dentures and dental implants. But which is the right choice for you?
Here’s a comparison of the key differences between dentures and dental implants:
- Cost: Dentures are generally less expensive than dental implants, with prices ranging from $1,000 to $3,000 per arch. Dental implants can cost $3,000 to $5,000 per tooth.
- Comfort: Dentures can cause sore spots or irritation, especially in the first few weeks of use. Dental implants are more comfortable and feel like natural teeth.
- Maintenance: Dentures require daily cleaning and regular adjustments or replacements. Dental implants require regular cleaning and check-ups, but no adjustments or replacements.
- Durability: Dentures typically last 5-8 years before needing to be replaced, while dental implants can last a lifetime with proper care.
- Appearance: Dentures may appear less natural and may slip or shift while eating or speaking. Dental implants appear and function like natural teeth.
In the end, the right choice for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. Consult with your dentist to determine which option is best for you.
What are Dentures
Dentures are a type of dental prosthetic that are used to replace missing teeth. They can be made from a variety of materials and are custom-made to fit the patient’s mouth. Dentures are a popular option for people who have lost teeth due to age, injury, or disease.
Types of Dentures
There are two main types of dentures: complete dentures and partial dentures.
Complete dentures are used when all of the patient’s teeth are missing. They consist of a full set of artificial teeth that are attached to a gum-colored base. The base is made to fit snugly over the patient’s gums, which creates suction to hold the dentures in place. Complete dentures can be made to fit either the upper or lower jaw, or both.
Partial dentures are designed to fill in gaps in the patient’s smile. They consist of artificial teeth that are attached to a metal or plastic framework. The framework is then attached to the remaining natural teeth using metal clasps or precision attachments.
Materials Used for Dentures
Dentures can be made from a variety of materials, including acrylic resin, porcelain, and a combination of metals. The material used will depend on the patient’s individual needs and budget.
History of Dentures
The use of dentures dates back to ancient civilizations. In Egypt, for example, wealthy individuals would have teeth made of ivory or animal bone. In the 16th century, dentures made of human teeth began to appear, but these were not always reliable or hygienic.
It wasn’t until the 18th century that the first porcelain dentures were developed. These were more durable and realistic-looking than previous dentures, but they were still uncomfortable and difficult to wear.
Advancements in denture materials and technology have made modern dentures much more comfortable and functional than their predecessors.
Caring for Dentures
It is important to note that dentures require proper care and maintenance in order to last for many years. Patients should clean their dentures daily using a soft-bristled brush and denture cleaner. They should also remove their dentures before going to bed and soak them in a denture cleaning solution overnight.
Is Dentures Right for You?
While dentures can be a great option for patients who have lost teeth, they may not be suitable for everyone. Patients with certain medical conditions, such as severe bone loss, may not be good candidates for dentures. Additionally, some patients may find that dentures are uncomfortable or difficult to adjust to.
Best Dental Implants Specialist in Los Angeles
If you’re considering dentures or dental implants, it’s important to consult with a qualified and experienced dental professional. Southland Dental Care, located in Los Angeles, is home to some of the best dental implant specialists in the area. Their team of experts can help you determine the best treatment option for your individual needs. Visit their website at Southlanddentalcare.com to learn more.