Implants Vs. Dentures – Explaining The Basics (And What’s Right For You)‍

If you’re missing one or more teeth, you may be wondering if dental implants or dentures are the right choice for your situation. So in this blog from Five Pines Dental, we’ll look at the basics of each type of treatment, and explain which one may be the best option for you. 

What Are Dental Implants?

Dental implants are small, screw-shaped rods of titanium. These are surgically placed into your gum and jaw bone, and are inserted where your missing tooth used to be. As they heal, the implants bond with your jaw bone permanently. This allows them to be used to support a wide range of false teeth.

Single-tooth implants are the most common, and use one dental crown that attaches to a single implant. However, two implants can be used to support a dental bridge that consists of multiple teeth. 

And in some cases, dental implants are used to restore an entire mouth of missing teeth. A set of implant-supported dentures can be built and attached to a row of 4-6 implants in the upper and lower teeth, completely restoring the smile.

What Are Dentures?

There are two main types of dentures, known as partial dentures and full dentures. Partial dentures are designed to replace several missing teeth. They have a few false teeth, which are set into a metal and plastic framework. This framework clips onto your healthy teeth, holding the false teeth in place and restoring your smile.

Full dentures are different. They replace the upper, lower, or both rows of teeth, and require the extraction of all of your remaining teeth. They consist of a set of false teeth that are set into a gum-colored acrylic base. With a set of full dentures, you can completely restore your smile, even if you’ve lost all of your teeth.

Which Is Right For Me?

Generally speaking, dentures are a better option if you’re on a tight budget. They are less expensive than dental implants, and are covered by dental insurance up to applicable limits. Whether you need partial or full dentures, they are a more budget-friendly choice. 

However, dental implants are a better choice if you can afford them. They are more pricey, but they last much longer than dentures. Dental implants are also more convenient, look and feel more natural, and require much less special care. If you have the budget for it and your jaw bone is healthy enough for treatment, dental implants are the way to go.

Why Do I Need Implants Or Dentures?

Dental implants and dentures may be different, but they do the same thing. They treat tooth loss. Whether you’ve lost teeth due to an oral injury, gum disease, or tooth decay, a set of dentures or a dental implant can restore your missing teeth.

With implants or dentures from Five Pines Dental, you can restore your smile, your bite, your self-confidence, and your ability to eat your favorite foods. Replacing your missing teeth also helps prevent further complications, like teeth shifting after tooth loss. 

Need New Teeth In Portland? Come To Five Pines Dental For Expert Care!

At Five Pines Dental, Dr. Richard Zeller specializes in implant dentistry in Portland. If you’d like to learn more about dental implants and your other options for tooth replacement, we’re here to help. Dr. Zeller is always accepting new patients, so don’t wait. Contact us online or give us a call at (503) 482-2160 to schedule your consultation today.