If you’re debating dental implants versus dentures to replace missing teeth, keep reading. Today I’m going to break down some of the advantages and drawbacks of dentures, especially when compared to dental implants and full mouth dental implants.
The Drawbacks of Dentures
Although it may seem tempting to get dentures to replace broken teeth—after all, dentures initially cost less and seems non-invasive because it doesn’t require surgery—it’s important to remember that dentures aren’t without their drawbacks.
Some of the disadvantages of dentures include:
- Low initial cost, especially when compared to dental implants — however, that low cost can be negated when you factor in the replacement cost of dentures, which need to be replaced every 3 to 6 years (versus 15-20+ years for implants, although those with a metal framework, and which are supported by natural teeth, may last a little longer)
- Fragility, and likely to break if dropped
- A less natural look than permanent replacement options like full mouth dental implants
- Require regular removal and cleaning
- Difficulty eating, especially if a person lacks the muscle control required to eat with dentures
- Restrictions on the types of food that can be eaten — these restrictions may make it more difficult to have a balanced diet that provides all the nutrients required for good overall health
- Slippage, particularly if the dentures have been worn for a few years as the jawbone changes shape, becoming flatter and less able to provide retention
- Risk of trapping food, which can increase the chances of gum disease and decay of remaining teeth
Dentures vs. Full Mouth Dental Implants: Other Factors to Consider
When it comes to comparing dentures to full mouth implants, there are plenty of benefits offered by implants that aren’t found in dentures. For example, full mouth implants provide support the cheeks and lips, restoring height between the upper and lower jaws so the face no longer looks as if it has collapsed inwards.
Additional benefits of full mouth dental implants include:
- Durability. Implants that are properly cared for can last for many years, or even for life, so costs can be lower in the longer term. In comparison, dentures will need replacing relatively frequently.
- Long-term oral health. Implants help to preserve bone and prevent gum tissue from shrinking by stimulating them with the forces produced by chewing. Dentures do not have this effect, and an ill-fitting restoration can even accelerate bone loss if it places too much pressure on the gums and underlying bone.
- Oral hygiene. Dentures need to be cleaned meticulously every day. In comparison, implants can be maintained by simply brushing and flossing.
Improved appearance. Implants look very natural and function in a way that is similar to your own teeth. Dentures can feel very large and bulky in comparison. - Dentures often slip, and may click during eating and speaking, whereas implants can’t move and are held rigidly in place by the jawbone.
- Improved food taste. Food may taste better with implants. It will be easier to chew properly and you should be able to eat a greater variety of healthy food. If they are used to replace upper dentures, you’ll notice food is tastier as your upper palate (which contains thousands of taste buds) will be uncovered.
Dentures vs. Full Mouth Dental Implants: What’s Better for Me?
If you’re not sure whether dental implants or dentures are the best choice for you, call us today and schedule your free consult. I’ll walk you through the steps of choosing which treatment is best for replacing your missing teeth, and we’ll get you back on the road to a beautiful smile.
