Missing teeth are a big deal, impacting your ability to chew food, talk, swallow and smile – Things most of us take for granted. There are several options for replacing missing teeth, but how do you know what is right for you? Dentures or Dental Implants? Well firstly it pays to receive professional advice from a dentist as both options have their pros and cons depending on your situation.

Dentures

A denture is a removable prosthesis which can replace multiple missing teeth and gums. Typically, there are two types of dentures are available. Complete and partial dentures. Complete dentures are used when all the teeth are missing, while partial dentures are used when some natural teeth remain.

Made of acrylic or metal frames, advancements in Denture technology means Dentures are more comfortable than ever before. Dentures not only restore your ability to fulfil simple tasks like eating food, they reinstate a happy, healthy smile and look terrific – Giving you the confidence you need.

Advantages include

• Cost effective
• Quickly fabricated – Simple process, with same day dentures an option
• Can replace multiple teeth.

Implants

Have you ever heard the term implant and been confused as to what they are and the process behind the procedure? Let’s break it down in layman’s terms. Think of a dental implant as a titanium screw that is inserted into the jaw. This insert then acts to hold an artificial tooth. Today implants are considered the benchmark for replacing a missing tooth.

More and more people are choosing dental implants over removable dentures or fixed bridges.  Dental implants offer several advantages for people who want to replace their missing, diseased or decayed teeth. The biggest advantage is that dental implants are fixed and not removable and remain there for many years.

Advantages include

• They stay in place, without any slipping or clicking when eating or speaking. Poses no risk of moving or dislodging
• Confidence in chewing – After a little while you won’t even have to think about it!
• Promote healthy self-esteem and provide a natural look and feel
• Do not need to be removed each night for soaking and cleaning and do not require adhesives to keep them in place
• Minimal maintenance needed once inserted.
• Easily incorporates into your regular oral health routine with brushing twice a day and flossing once a day
• Assist in protecting the jawbone by preventing further deterioration
• Less risk of cavities developing. Since dental implants are made with titanium and affixed with a crown, bridge or fixed denture, cavities cannot occur.

What is best for you?

So now you hopefully better understand the similarities, differences pros and cons of Dentures vs Implants we can determine what works best for different individuals.

Initially medical imaging tests such as X-rays, OPG X-rays and CT scans are used to determine the amount and quality of the existing bone, considering various factors such as previous implant or denture history, smoking habits, quality of existing teeth and health of gums. From there the decision is up to you – Here are some things you may want to consider:

Insurance coverage

Depending on your cover, factoring in that these procedures are classified as major dental, Dentures and implants may or may not be covered. It is likely your insurance will cover a portion of the implant, denture or bridge, however it is advised before making any decision that you contact your provider to find out the full extent of your cover.

Long-term thinking

Implants that are properly cared often last your entire life span, so costs can be lower in the longer term, factoring in that dentures will need replacing and regular upkeep. Do the math for yourself after gauging pricing and calculate long term vs short terms costs.

Long-term facial structure

Implants help to preserve bone and overall facial structure. This also means a lessened chance of gum tissue from shrinking and the jaw deforming or shrinking. Dentures do not address bone loss, as such there is a likelihood that the structure of the face will suffer.

Oral hygiene

Dentures need to be cleaned meticulously every day. In comparison, implants can be maintained by simply brushing and flossing.

Appearance

Implants aim to look and function almost identically to real teeth. If appearance matters to you, this may be something to discuss with your dentist.

It is advised that you discuss all above concerns with your dentist and only after thoroughly researching the options for yourself, you come to a decision. For more information on how Dental One fits implants or dentures or to book an appointment contact us on 1300 0 NOGAP (1300 0 66 427)