44 Everett St., Southbridge, MA 01550
(508) 764-4600
Open Mon-Thurs: 8am-5pm, Every Other Fri: 8am-5pm, Every Other Sat: 8am-1pm
Losing your teeth – even just one tooth – can have a profound impact on your life. Thankfully, we offer tooth replacement options that restore your smile’s appearance and your chewing abilities! What are the differences between dental implants and dentures? Is one better than the other? Let’s compare them on factors such as how they look, how long they last, and how they feel.
Appearance
Dental implants are made of small titanium posts with a crown placed on top. Because the post is surgically implanted and fuses to your jaw, it replaces the root of the tooth you lost. Implants look like natural teeth. Dentures consist of a base that resembles gum tissue and false teeth. They don’t look quite as natural as implants.
Lifespan
Dental implants should last your entire life. The restoration on top of the implant, usually a dental crown, can last 15 years or much more if properly cared for. Dentures, on the other hand, generally last between 7-10 years.
Feel
How do implants and dentures feel when you’re talking and eating? Because dental implants so closely mimic natural teeth, your speech will likely not be affected. Dentures can slip, making it trickier to talk clearly. This applies to eating, as well. There’s essentially no difference between dental implants and natural teeth when eating. Dentures need more care to keep them properly in place. Most people who wear dentures adjust to them after some time.
Care & Maintenance
Dental implants are cared for like your natural teeth. With brushing, flossing, and regular checkups with Dr. Park, your implants will last a long time. Dentures require more specialized care. You need to remove them from your mouth for cleaning and soak them overnight. If they get dry, they can start to change their shape or even crack.
Cost
In general, dental implants are more expensive than dentures. If you are missing only a few teeth this might not be a huge factor. After the first consultation, you’ll know the cost of your treatment so you can make a decision. At Southbridge Dental Care, we offer a variety of payment options, including insurance and CareCredit® financing.
Dental implants vs. dentures: which is best?
The tooth replacement that’s right for you depends on a handful of factors. After a consultation at our Southbridge office, we’ll know if you’re a good candidate for dental implants or if dentures are better. If you have any questions about tooth replacement or our other services, please contact us today!