Dentures vs. Dental Implants: Which Is Right for You?

At Plano Family Dental, Dr. Joseph and Dr. Schell have decades of experience with implants and dentures. You can rest assured that they will explain your options to help you decide which one is best for you.

What is a traditional denture?

• A full acrylic appliance that replaces all the teeth on your upper and/or lower jaw.
• Held in place by suction to the gums covering your jawbone. Some people must use a denture adhesive (like Fixodent) to keep it in place.
• Not connected to your jawbone. Over time, your jawbone will shrink back.

What is an implant?

• A titanium post integrated inside your jawbone, with a post and crown on top. It looks like a natural tooth. Implants can also be used to hold bridges in place to span the space of several missing teeth.
• Implants stay in place and are not removable.
• It is connected to your jawbone and keeps it healthy.

What are the advantages and disadvantages?

Traditional Dentures

Advantages

• Lower cost
• Less invasive

Disadvantages

• Can become loose and slip around in the mouth (causing sores and food traps underneath)
• Denture adhesive can be messy
• May require more frequent maintenance and replacement, especially as the jawbone shrinks away

Dental Implants

Advantages

• Keep the jawbone healthier and reduce shrinking of the bone
• Stable in your mouth when chewing and speaking
• Feel more like natural teeth
• Can last a lifetime with proper cleaning and regular dental checkups
• Don’t require shaving down adjacent teeth

Disadvantages

• Can have a higher cost than other restorations
• Require a surgical procedure to place the implants
• May require bone grafts or sinus lifts to support the implant posts
• Take several months to complete

Tooth loss can have a negative impact on your self-esteem and quality of life, but tooth replacement can help you regain your confidence. The information above — along with a conversation with Dr. Joseph or Dr. Schell — can help you decide which option is right for you.