Looking to Book an Appointment? Click to Contact Us

Dentures vs. Dental Implants

If you need to replace lost or damaged teeth, you have a few options in Grande Prairie. Dentures and dental implants are two of the most popular. In this post, we share reasons you might consider each.

Why People Get Implants or Dentures

Missing teeth can be replaced with either implants or dentures. They allow patients to chew food and support facial muscles by restoring the jaw's natural shape. In addition, they can help improve speech. Many of our patients report feeling reduced negative feelings about their appearance and increased self-esteem after using either of these tooth replacement options.

Why Choose One Option Over the Other

Since each tooth replacement option has the same end goal in mind, other factors will determine which of the two options is best for you. These include preference, price and the health of your jawbone and remaining teeth. 

Advantages of Implants

Implants do not require much special maintenance. Caring for your implant(s) involves giving it regular dental care; brushing at least twice per day and flossing daily will keep your implant clean as it does its job alongside your existing natural teeth. Another advantage of dental implants is that they are a more permanent solution. For this reason, patients in their 60s and younger might prefer implants as they can provide decades of service (provided you care for them well). 

Some find that dental implants provide better chewing and comfort than dentures do.

Disadvantages of Implants

Implants are generally more expensive than dentures, which can be a reason why patients decide against them in favour of dentures. Another issue is that implants require a certain bone density to be affixed to a patient's jaw, and so if you have previously suffered from bone loss, they may be a poor fit for your needs.

Implants are also potentially subject to a number of health complications including infection and mechanical problems, such as loose posts or cracked crowns.

Advantages of Dentures

The most immediate appeal of dentures, when contrasted with implants, is that they tend to be more affordable. They also work much better for individuals who've suffered bone loss in their jaw, and for those who are not interested in the more invasive treatments and procedures required to install a dental implant. 

For these reasons, some patients are more likely to prefer dentures to implants.

Disadvantages of Dentures

Dentures are less permanent than implants and are removable. Dentures also require special maintenance to keep clean. In order to clean dentures (which should be done daily), they need to be removed after eating and brushed. You may also need to brush away any bits of adhesive that are lingering on your gums. Furthermore, you shouldn’t wear your dentures overnight. Dentures should be soaked in water or a special cleaning solution while you sleep. 

Another thing to be aware of is that your mouth changes over time. Your dentist will have to periodically refit your dentures to accommodate for this. Implants are permanent, and will typically not require this.

Dentures vs Dental Implants - The Final Verdict

Ultimately, there are good reasons to choose both implants and dentures – it all depends on your personal situation. We recommend speaking with your dentist, who can help you make the choice that is best for you.

Have questions about dentures or dental implants? Contact us today in order to book an appointment with one of our Grande Prairie dentists.

New Patients Always Welcome

Looking for a dentist in Grande Prairie? We're happily accepting new patients at our dental clinic! Contact us to get started today. 

Request Appointment