Dental Implants vs. Dentures: Which is Best for You?

Losing your teeth can be a difficult experience. However, you can still enjoy the functions you once had through the use of dental implants or dentures. Each comes with its own benefits and drawbacks, so you’ll want to consider your decision carefully.

Which is best for you?

Speaking with Dentures and Dental Implants

Remember when grandma used to get upset when you couldn’t understand her mumbling? She may have had dentures that didn’t fit properly. You won’t have that problem with your grandchildren if you get dental implants as your teeth won’t slip. However, newer dentures are also designed to fit better within the mouth as well.

Eating

Want to enjoy your favorite foods without feeling like you’re completing a chore? Dental implants would probably work better for you. They’ll allow you to eat as if you’re using your natural teeth instead of worrying about whether or not your dentures will slide and cause chewing difficulties.

Comfort

Unlike removable dentures, dental implants become a part of you. This eliminates the discomfort you might experience with removable dentures.

Hassle

The implants become permanent, so there’s no need to worry about removing them like you may with dentures. You also won’t need to use adhesives with the former. If you’re concerned about the hassles you could face with dentures, implants may be more suitable for you.

Cost

Dental implants typically cost more than dentures. Whether this is worth it or not will depend on your specific situation.

To get an idea of how much you might pay for each, consider the following costs you may encounter:

· Single dental implant: $2,400-$3,000

· Two to six dental implants with dental bridge: $3,500-$30,000 or more

· Full set of dental implants and dentures: $7,000-$90,000 or more

· Removable partial dentures: $700-$1,800

· Full set of dentures: $600-$8,000 or more

· Total cost of getting dentures: $1,500-$20,000 or more

Insurance

When getting dental implants, your health insurance may cover some of your surgical costs. However, your dental insurance probably won’t cover the implants themselves.

You may have better luck with dentures if they’re medically necessary. In this case, your insurance may cover up to half of your expenses.

Contact your dental and health insurance providers for information on how much, if any, either will cover for your dentures or implants.

Success Rate

Dental implants have a success rate of up to 98 percent. For comparison, a study of various designs of removable partial dentures 10 years after placement found a success rate of around 60 percent. You probably don’t want to have to start all over again in the future, so implants are likely your best option for a successful outcome.

Conclusion

Dental implants are typically more expensive than dentures. And it’s less likely your insurance will cover them.

However, if implants are in your budget, you’ll generally be better off by choosing them. You’ll have an easier time eating and speaking. They may also be more comfortable and involve less hassle, all while providing a higher success rate.

Speak to a qualified cosmetic dental surgeon to learn whether implants or dentures are best for you. He or she should be able to provide the advice you’re looking for and help you decide on the best option.