By Rafael Mercado, DDS on October 25, 2021
When you have missing teeth, it’s not just your confidence and the beauty of your smile that are in danger—it’s your health. Dental implants and dentures are both popular, safe, and trusted methods to replace missing teeth. Each option has its benefits. Dental implants are artificial tooth roots that anchor crowns, bridges, and dentures, while traditional dentures can be removed at any time by the patient. But which should you choose?
Dr. Rafael Mercado heads Castle Hills Family Dental, serving Castle Hill, TX, patients one smile at a time. During your consultation, we will discuss your oral health profile and the procedures that will produce the best results. Let’s highlight the top differences between dental implants and dentures.
Differences to Consider About Dental Implants and Dentures
Which procedure you choose depends largely on the oral health problems you would like to solve and your goals for treatment. Dr. Mercado ensures that you have as much control as possible over your treatment, though there are some factors you should consider as you start your journey:
- Location of the missing teeth
- Condition of your teeth, mouth, and jaw
- Dental implant and denture cost
At Castle Hill Family Dental, we use the latest technology to give you the best options for care. Our patients in Castle Hills, TX, trust us to have their best interests at heart.
Location of the Missing Teeth
Dental implants can restore individual teeth throughout the mouth. Dentures replace entire rows of teeth. However, implant-supported dentures can also replace an entire arch of teeth. The use of implant-supported dentures provides stability for the appliance that cannot be achieved with traditional dentures.
If you have only one missing tooth, then the choice seems clear: a single dental implant to support a crown. If you have multiple missing teeth, the question becomes whether or not you’re likely to lose more teeth and if these teeth are sequentially located. Traditional or implant-supported dentures are typically the better choice if your tooth loss is extensive.
Condition of Your Teeth, Mouth, and Jaw
You must have decent overall health to get dental implants. Dental implants require a strong jaw bone to support the biocompatible posts that act as tooth roots. The implant restoration is then attached to an abutment on the implant posts. Dental implants have the added benefit of preventing jaw atrophy and deterioration, a common problem when people are missing teeth.
Traditional dentures are an excellent option for anyone who wouldn’t be able to sustain implants, whether due to oral health concerns or a lack of jawbone density.
Dental Implant and Denture Cost
Dental implants cost an average of $2,000 for each implant. An entire set of upper dentures cost about the same amount. Dentures might seem like the cheaper option on the surface, but it’s important to factor in maintenance costs. Dentures can require frequent refittings, check-ups, and expensive adhesives. Moreover, your health is still at risk because dentures don’t stop jaw atrophy. This could lead to even more costly procedures down the line.
Schedule Your Consultation
Losing teeth doesn’t mean that they are lost forever. Castle Hills Family Dental brings decades of experience to patients in the Castle Hills, TX, area. Our trained, compassionate team is here to answer any questions you may have, and help usher you into a happier, healthier future. Call our office at (210) 405-1257 or send us a message to speak with us about a consultation.