Deciding between removable dentures and fixed dental implants is a significant choice for anyone looking to restore their smile. Although both options offer benefits, they cater to different needs and preferences.
Understanding the distinctions between these solutions can help you make a choice that aligns with your lifestyle, budget, and long-term oral health goals. For those seeking affordable denture and implants in Parkersburg, it’s essential to weigh the pros and cons carefully to select the best option for your dental care.
Comparing Removable Dentures and Fixed Dental Implants
Cost and Affordability
- Removable Dentures: Removable dentures are often considered an affordable option since they involve less invasive procedures that result in lower upfront costs. However, over time, you may incur additional expenses due to natural changes in your jaw and the wear and tear of the dentures, which may require replacements or adjustments.
- Fixed Dental Implants: Implants used in dentistry may cost more initially due to the materials used and surgical procedures required. However, they can be more cost-effective in the long run because they can last for many years, even decades. In other words, they won’t need to be replaced as often. Additionally, they require minimal maintenance, making them a more affordable option over a lifetime.
Durability and Longevity
- Removable Dentures: These are durable but must likely be replaced every 5 to 8 years. Factors contributing to this include the wear and tear from daily use and natural changes in your jawbone and gums, which affect how the dentures fit.
- Fixed Dental Implants: Known for their strength and longevity, dental implants are integrated directly into the jawbone, providing a stable and permanent solution for missing teeth. Implants can last a lifetime with proper care, including regular dental check-ups and good oral hygiene.
Functionality and Comfort
- Removable Dentures: While functional, dentures do not offer the same security as implants. They may slip or move while you’re eating or talking, which can cause discomfort and require adjustments during the day.
- Fixed Dental Implants: Implants offer functionality and comfort similar to natural teeth. They are securely anchored, allowing for confident eating and speaking without the fear of the implants slipping or moving.
Aesthetic Appeal
- Both Options: Removable dentures and fixed dental implants are designed to improve your smile and overall facial aesthetics.
- Removable Dentures: Dentures can provide a pleasing look and match your natural teeth. However, they might not look as seamless as implants because they can shift slightly in your mouth.
- Fixed Dental Implants: Dental implants are popular due to their natural appearance. These are custom-made to match the color and shape of your surrounding teeth and are secured in place. For this reason, they provide better support for your face’s natural structure.
Oral Health Impact
- Removable Dentures: They sit on top of the gums and do not stimulate the jawbone beneath, which can lead to bone resorption over time. This bone loss can affect the facial structure and the fit of the dentures, necessitating adjustments and relining over time.
- Fixed Dental Implants: Implants work by mimicking the function of natural tooth roots, which helps to preserve jawbone density and prevent bone loss. Unlike other dental treatments, implants do not require any alteration of healthy teeth nearby, so your mouth can retain more of its natural structure.
Make the Right Choice Between Affordable Denture and Implants in Parkersburg!
Both removable dentures and fixed dental implants have their place in dental restoration, each with unique benefits and drawbacks. By understanding these differences, you can make a more informed decision about which is right for you.
Are you considering affordable dentures and implants to restore your smile? Contact Richard Newhart, DDS, to explore your options and find the best solution for your needs. Schedule a consultation today.