Dental Implants vs Dentures – Exploring Your Options

dental implants vs dentures, woman deciding what is the best option
August 9, 2024

If you have missing, broken, or severely damaged teeth, you’ll be happy to know there are several options available, like dental implants and dentures, to help you smile with confidence again.  

Your dentures and dental implants San Jose specialist can help you identify the best treatment for your unique oral health needs. However, it’s helpful to have a foundational understanding of dentures vs implants and what each treatment entails. 

What Are Dental Implants? 

Dental implants are artificial and sturdy structures implanted into the jaw to restore a patient’s appearance and ability to chew and enhance oral health functions.  

Dental implants are generally capped with crowns designed to replicate your natural, white teeth. Alternatively, if full mouth dental implants are necessary, a denture with implants treatment – also known as implant-supported dentures – may be an option. In dental implants with dentures treatment, the full dentures are affixed on top of your jawbone as a permanent replacement for your natural teeth. 

What is the Cost of Dental Implants? 

Dental implants are a surgical procedure that is more expensive than dentures. However, your insurance might cover the cost, and your San Jose dental implant specialist can help you explore payment options that fit your budget.  

How Long Do Dental Implants Last? 

Patients often prefer dental implants simply because they are a permanent solution. Dental implants can last up to 30 years or more, so depending on your age, they are a lifelong solution to missing or damaged teeth. 

What Are Dentures? 

Dentures are fully removable oral appliances designed to replace missing teeth and improve your smile and confidence. They help restore oral health and chewing functions and you can easily remove for extra comfort. 

How Much Do Dentures Cost? 

Dentures are traditionally less expensive than dental implant surgery, as acquiring dentures is a noninvasive procedure.  However, unlike dental implants, the cost of dentures is recurring, as they generally need to be replaced every 7-10 years.  

How Long Do Dentures Last? 

Provided that you take care of your dentures, they can last for many years.  However, as your bite changes over time, they may need to be refitted or upgraded in the decades ahead.  

How Can I Decide Between Dental Implants vs Dentures? 

There are several factors to take into consideration when it comes to deciding between dental implants and dentures. Let’s look at what you should consider when deciding what is best for your oral health.  

  • Age – Because dental implants are a more permanent treatment, they may be a better option for patients in their 60s or younger 
  • Bone density – Dental implants may not be a good fit for patients with low bone density, as they require a certain and substantial amount of bone material. 
  • Care and comfort – Dental implants require no extra cleaning or care, while dentures involve more maintenance. In addition, many patients report that while the dental implant procedure is more complex than being fitted for dentures, dental implants tend to be more comfortable – and not even noticeable – over time. 

Explore Your Options for Dental Implants and Dentures in San Jose  

The best way to determine the best treatment for your oral health and lifestyle is to start a conversation with the experts. Reach out to our caring and professional team at Pannu Dental Group today for a consultation.  

 Let’s work together to identify a lifelong treatment to enhance your health and smile.  

Visit one of Pannu Dental Group’s six Bay Area locations, including dentists in Dublin, CA, and dentists in Sunnyvale, CA. Contact us today to experience convenient, top-notch dental care close to home. 

Schedule your appointment today!  

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Dr. Dalvir S. Pannu has been a practicing dentist since 1995. In 1996 he opened his first dental practice in India, where he gained invaluable experience and acumen. In October of 1997 he was invited by the American Dental Association (ADA) to present the table clinic on Endodontics, at their annual session held in Washington, D.C. At this time he fell in love with the United States and became passionate about practicing dentistry in California. He became particularly enamored of the San Francisco Bay area, and soon took up residence and work here.