Dental Implants VS Dentures

WHAT’S THE RIGHT OPTION FOR YOU?

At first glance, dental implants and dentures might appear to be interchangeable solutions to the same problem. However, these two treatments not only differ in how they are constructed and placed but also in the way they influence an individual's life. To make the best decision for your dental health, it's crucial to understand the distinctions between these options and how each may impact your overall well-being.

So, buckle up and get ready to dive into the captivating world of tooth replacements, as we walk you through the ins and outs of dental implants and dentures. We'll help you uncover the impact of these seemingly similar solutions on your day-to-day life. Let's begin this journey together and explore the path to a healthier, happier, and more radiant you!

At the end of this article you will have complete understanding of your options, especially if you may be considering full mouth restoration for you or someone you know. You'll not only have a solid grasp of the topic but also feel empowered to make an informed decision about the right treatment for your unique situation. And as always, if you ever have any questions on what you are reading, you can take our 60-second quiz to find out if you are eligible for permanent teeth in 24 hours, or speak to a dental provider at Nuvia.

THE HISTORY OF DENTURES

At first glance, dental implants and dentures might appear to be interchangeable solutions to the same problem. However, these two treatments differ not only in how they are constructed and placed but also in the way they influence an individual's life. To make the best decision for your dental health, it's crucial to understand the distinctions between these options and how each may impact your overall well-being.

The history of dentures dates back thousands of years, with ancient civilizations striving to find innovative solutions for missing teeth. The earliest known examples of dentures have been found in Egyptian, Etruscan, and Mayan archaeological

sites, where they used gold wires, animal teeth, and even human teeth sourced from slaves or the deceased. While these early dentures were a far cry from today's forms of replacements for teeth, they demonstrate humanity's ingenuity and determination to overcome the challenges posed by tooth loss.

The evolution of dentures truly began to pick up speed during the 18th century when European dentists started experimenting with materials like ivory and animal teeth. But it was the invention of vulcanite, a hardened rubber material, in the 19th century that revolutionized denture production. Fast forward to the 20th century, dentures underwent a series of improvements, including the introduction of acrylic resins and, later, digital technology for enhanced precision and customization.

Dentures have long been a popular solution for dealing with tooth loss, but did you know that they are becoming less popular as newer options emerge?

Tooth loss is a widespread issue in America, affecting over 36 million individuals who don't have any teeth, and another 120 million who are missing at least one tooth (American College of Prosthodontists, n.d.).Dentures, in the past, were the go-to option for those struggling with edentulism (having no teeth). However, as more people have become aware of their downsides in comparison to newer treatments, dentures are quickly becoming a less desirable option. In the next section, we'll explore dentures in more detail. After that, we will move on to explore more about dental implants and why they're becoming the preferred choice for those looking to replace missing teeth.

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THE HISTORY OF DENTAL IMPLANTS

Dental implants, while a relatively newer option compared to dentures, have their roots in the 1950s when a Swedish orthopedic surgeon named Per-Ingvar Brånemark made a serendipitous discovery. While studying bone healing and regeneration, he observed that titanium metal had the unique ability to fuse with bone tissue – a process known as osseointegration. This pioneering research laid the foundation for modern dental implants and led to the first successful implant placement in a human patient in 1965.  the years, dental implant technology has come a long way, from Brånemark's initial discoveries to today's cutting-edge advancements. Innovations such as the development of different implant designs, surfaces, and coatings have significantly increased the success rate and longevity of dental implants.

Additionally, computer-aided design and manufacturing (CAD/CAM) technologies have enabled dentists to achieve greater precision and customization in dental implant placement and restoration. As dental technology advanced, researchers and dental professionals discovered the significance of biocompatibility (ensuring foreign materials, such as titanium dental implants, can be placed in the body without causing harm or being rejected,) similar to how an organ transplant can be rejected if it is seen as a foreign object.

This discovery of biocompatibility (being able to place metal into human bone successfully) led to the creation of more innovative materials that offer not only increased strength and durability but also promote successful osseointegration (bone growing around the implant). Titanium and zirconia have become the gold standard for dental implants. While denture materials have also improved to provide enhanced fit, comfort, and aesthetics, the exceptional strength of zirconia and titanium, used in Nuvia's dental implants, beats the strength of acrylic by a wide margin.

The adoption of digital technology in dentistry has opened up a world of possibilities for both dental implants and dentures. Techniques such as 3D imaging, intraoral scanning, and CAD/CAM have transformed the way dental professionals diagnose, plan, and execute treatments. These technologies have not only improved the precision and accuracy of implant placement and teeth fabrication but have also paved the way for highly customized and patient-specific solutions that cater to individual needs and preferences.

The field of dentistry and tooth replacement options has come a long way since its humble beginnings. From the rudimentary attempts at tooth replacement in ancient civilizations to today's state-of-the-art dental implants and dentures, the continuous quest for improvement has made it possible for patients to enjoy better oral health, functionality, and aesthetics. By understanding the history and advancements in dentistry, we can appreciate the incredible progress made and look forward to even more innovative solutions in the future.

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WHAT ARE FULL MOUTH DENTAL IMPLANTS?

‍Full mouth dental implants are a long-lasting solution for people who have lost most or all of their teeth. These dental implants function like screws, fastened into the bone to stabilize the replacement teeth, acting as a root system to hold the teeth. This treatment not only gives you a natural-looking smile, but it also supports your oral health and can enhance your overall quality of life. One of the best parts is that you might not even notice you have them, as they are designed to be as close to natural teeth as possible. Full mouth dental implants tend to have a higher satisfaction rate when compared to traditional dentures (Pommer et al., 2011).

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Materials Used In Nuvia's Dental Implants

Full mouth dental implants are usually made of two main materials: titanium and zirconia. Both of these materials are strong, long-lasting, and safe to use in your body. By making sure that we use materials that work well with your jawbone, we lower the chance of any problems down the road.


Titanium dental implants:
Titanium is a common choice for dental implants because it works really well with your body, and it is strong and long-lasting. Titanium implants are light, don't rust, and are great at connecting with your jawbone, which ensures the dental implant stays stable for a long time or even forever.

Zirconia Teeth:
Zirconia is a newer material used for dental implant teeth and is becoming more popular because it looks nice and is safe to use in your body. Zirconia can come in a variety of colors but typically is used in white and pink to resemble the teeth and gums. Zirconia is able to appear very close to the look of natural teeth because of the way it reflects the light. Because zirconia is so strong and long-lasting, it is common to never need to replace the teeth in a lifetime because there are very seldom any problems with chipping or cracking. (*With Proper Maintenance and Care)
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The impact of dental implants, especially full mouth dental implants, can be huge. For people who have lost most or all of their teeth, this treatment can change their life. It not only makes their smile look beautiful, but it also helps them eat, talk, and can help promote a sense of self confidence about themselves. By using high-quality materials like titanium and zirconia, dental implants provide a reliable and long-lasting solution that functions and looks like natural teeth.

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FULL MOUTH DENTAL IMPLANT PROCESS AT NUVIA

To help you gain a better understanding of what you can expect when getting dental implants at Nuvia, we will review the process from start to finish.

Consultation
‍During the consultation, we will assess your oral health and determine if you're a good candiddate for full mouth dental implants. We will answer any questions you have and develop a personalized treatment plan based on your specific needs.

Smile Design
‍In the Smile Design phase, you will collaborate with your highly trained doctors and team to choose the shape and shade of your new teeth, ensuring they look natural and blend seamlessly with your facial features.

Surgery
‍During this appointment, you will be placed under safe general anesthesia by a licensed nurse anesthetist to ensure maximum comfort. The surgeon will remove any damaged or decayed teeth, if necessary, and then insert the titanium implants into the jawbone.

Permanent Teeth in 24 Hours
‍Through the night, our in-house lab team will customize your new teeth, and at this appointment, your new teeth will be attached to the implants, giving you a beautiful and functional new smile to enjoy as you begin your new life with a confident smile.

Osseointegration and healing
‍During the next few months after your surgery, the implants will begin the process of fusing with the jawbone, providing a strong foundation for your new teeth. During this healing time, we will have a guideline for what we recommend to help you heal, such as eating soft foods and brushing regularly. Healing times vary, but you can rest assured knowing that you will be in your new permanent set of teeth during the entire healing phase. You will have follow-up appointments two weeks and four months after the surgery. At the four-month appointment, we will address any changes in the bone and mouth that may have occurred during the healing process.

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Comparing Dental Implants and Dentures

As we have taken a deeper look into the advantages and disadvantages of dental implants and dentures, are you getting a better idea of what option might suit your needs best?

Dental implants offer numerous benefits, including enhanced stability, natural appearance, preservation of jawbone, and long-term durability. However, they may not be suitable for everyone, as factors like overall health, bone density, and financial considerations play a crucial role in determining candidacy.

On the other hand, dentures may provide a more accessible and affordable solution for those who cannot undergo implant treatment. Modern dentures can look realistic and provide a functional solution for those with multiple missing teeth. However, they may not offer the same level of stability and comfort as dental implants, and they require more maintenance, such as regular cleaning and periodic adjustments or replacements.

‍The cost of tooth replacement is often a significant factor for patients when choosing between dental implants and dentures. Dental implants tend to have a higher upfront cost compared to dentures, as they involve a more complex surgical procedure and use high-quality materials. However, when considering the long-term durability and low maintenance requirements of implants, they may prove to be a more cost-effective solution over time.

Dentures, while generally more affordable initially, may entail ongoing costs such as adjustments, relining, and regular replacement. Additionally, the lower stability and potential impact on oral health and bone loss may lead to further dental expenses down the road as the facial structure may change significantly.

By providing you with a comprehensive understanding of dental implants and dentures, we hope to empower you to make the right choice for your unique situation. With advances in dentistry continually pushing the boundaries of what is possible, patients today have more options than ever before to restore their smiles and enjoy a better quality of life.

Our team of experts are dedicated to providing you with the highest level of care and support throughout your dental journey. We will help you weigh the pros and cons of dental implants and dentures, taking into account your unique needs, preferences, and circumstances. Our ultimate goal is to ensure that you can make an informed decision and experience the life-changing benefits of a healthy, beautiful, and functional smile, whatever that looks like for you. Take our 60-second quiz now, and experience the difference that our expert care and cutting-edge technology can make in your life.

Sources: American College of Prosthodontists. (n.d.). Facts and figures. Retrieved from https://www.gotoapro.org/facts-figures/

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‍WHAT ARE DENTURES‍

Dentures are a removable device that can be placed inside the mouth to appear and function as teeth would. Although they are significantly limited in the amount of stabilization they can provide, often making it difficult or even impossible to properly chew food and talk normally.

Dentures are made up of acrylic that has been shaped into teeth and attached to a base that fits over the gums. There are different types of dentures, like complete and partial dentures, depending on what a person needs. For purposes of this article, we will be referring to dentures as complete dentures, or full arch dentures.

PROS AND CONS OF DENTURES

PROS

• #1 Cost
  Dentures do have some advantages that make them a helpful option for some people. They are generally less expensive upfront compared to dental implants, making them an attractive choice for those looking for a budget-friendly solution to replace missing teeth.
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• #2 Easy to replace
  The good news is that if you are prone to accidents or lose things often, they can be replaced relatively easily. Typically when dentures get lost or damaged, you will need to pay for a new set of dentures and the period to make them might range from only a few days up to a few weeks. Keep in mind, this could leave you without teeth until they are made, which some patients find it difficult to socialize or eat until they get their dentures back.
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• #3 Cleaning and care
  Because you can take your dentures out of your mouth, they typically are pretty easy to clean. Dentures need to be cleaned every day with a soft bristle denture brush and soaked in a cleaning solution when not being worn and at nights to help keep the device moist and clean. Keep in mind that dentures can begin to develop an odor if not properly taken care of and cleaned. If the odor becomes too pungent or strong, it may become noticeable to others around you and may need to be replaced in order to get rid of the smell, adding to the overall cost of your denture experience.
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• #4 Restore some function.
  ‍Another advantage of dentures is that they can restore a person's ability to speak and eat following tooth loss, especially when compared to having no teeth at all. However, this improvement may be limited by the fact that dentures do not provide the same stability and function as natural teeth or dental implants.
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• #5 Acrylic
  Denture materials have evolved significantly over the years, and today's dentures are made from advanced materials like acrylic resin and porcelain, which can closely mimic the appearance of natural teeth. However, even with these improvements, some patients may still feel that their dentures look fake or do not match the appearance of natural teeth in terms of color or shape.
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CONS

• #1 Recovery
  ‍The recovery following the removal of any remaining teeth and then being placed into a denture can be uncomfortable and lengthy. Especially when trying to wear a denture over fresh wounds from the extraction surgery. Some patients may swell considerably following surgery and still need to wear the denture so that the mouth can form to the device regardless of discomfort. During this transition, many people have found it very discouraging trying to navigate this new way of life and some even reconsider if they should have gotten dental implants at this point.
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• #2 Pain and irritation
  Another major issue with dentures is that they can be uncomfortable and cause irritation, even long after recovery from surgery. Denture wearers are at risk of developing oral sores and lesions due to friction between the dentures and the gums. These sores can be painful and make it challenging for the patient to wear their dentures comfortably. If these sores become infected, further treatment and care may be required, adding to the overall burden and cost of denture maintenance. This type of sore can be compared to wearing a pair of shoes that don’t fit you correctly. If the shoe rubs on a spot for hours, days, or even weeks, it would probably develop a sore that needs special attention. The same thing goes for dentures. As the bone changes in the mouth, and most of the time it does, it is common to find that the denture no longer fits as it should and will start to wear on your gums even into the bone causing sores to develop.In fact, about 15% of the denture-wearing population has new dentures made each year to deal with the poor fit that comes as the bone changes (American College of Prosthodontists, n.d.). This constant need for adjustments and replacements can be frustrating and add up quickly.
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• #3 Limited on food
  People who wear dentures often find it tough to eat certain foods, especially those that are hard, sticky, or need a strong bite. This can make it hard for them to have a well-rounded diet with lots of variety, which is important for staying healthy. As a result, they might not get all the nutrients they need, which can negatively affect their overall health. In addition to not being able to eat the right foods, denture wearers may also struggle with chewing their food well enough for their body to digest it properly. This can lead to issues with getting enough energy and nutrients from the food they do eat, making it even more challenging for them to maintain good health (Wiener, 1962). Some denture wearers may also experience a diminished sense of taste due to the coverage of the palate (roof of your mouth) by the denture base. This can interfere with the taste buds and make it more difficult to enjoy the flavors of food. A reduced enjoyment of meals can impact the patient's overall quality of life and may even contribute to poor eating habits.
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• #4 Self Esteem
  Dentures can adversely affect a patient's self-esteem and social life due to the embarrassment and anxiety caused by slipping or clicking. Such issues can make social situations uncomfortable, potentially leading to withdrawal, isolation, and a negative impact on mental health and overall well-being. Denture dislodgement (or dentures falling out) during daily activities is another concern, causing embarrassment and anxiety, leaving patients self-conscious about their appearance. Although denture adhesives may help to address this problem temporarily, they aren't foolproof, and many patients still experience denture movement or slippage, further affecting their confidence and social interactions.This instability can also affect a person's speech, causing slurred words or a clicking sound when talking.
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• #5 Deterioration of jawbone
  One of the long-term consequences of wearing dentures, or not having something stable inside of the bone like tooth roots or dental implants, is the gradual deterioration of the jawbone. Natural teeth and dental implants provide stimulation inside the jawbone when forces like chewing stimulate pressure inside of the bone. This constant pressure helps to maintain its strength and density. In contrast, dentures do not provide this stimulation, resulting in the jawbone losing density over time. The best way to think about it is that your body is so smart that it will not build bone where it does not think it is needed. So if there is nothing inside of the bone (think dental implants or tooth roots), it will take the resources to other parts of your body and stop bringing them to your mouth, eventually leading to bone loss. This bone loss can lead to facial sagging and a prematurely aged appearance.
  

Meet Michael, a patient from our Salt Lake City location who was in a denture when he came to see us. Can you see the difference between the time he came to see us wearing dentures and when he got his dental implants? Immediately there was a difference in lip support and face shape that some people say made him look younger and more energetic. What do you think?

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#6 Hidden Costs later on
‍In addition, the cost of dentures may not be as budget-friendly as initially perceived. Although the upfront cost may seem lower than dental implants, dentures typically require regular adjustments, relines, and replacements, among other costs which can add up over time. This ongoing maintenance can make dentures less cost-effective in the long run, as patients may need to pay for multiple sets of dentures, adjustments, relines, and additional dental visits throughout their lifetime.

Minnie, one of our denture patients who came to Nuvia for dental implants explained her experience with dentures vs dental implants. Watch her story below.

It is also important to consider the potential impact of dentures on a person's bite or alignment. Since dentures are not fixed in place like natural teeth or dental implants, they can shift over time, causing issues with the wearer's bite. This misalignment in the jaw can result in uneven wear, potential jaw pain, and difficulty chewing food properly. It can also make it challenging to find a comfortable resting position for the jaw, leading to increased strain and potential discomfort.

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