How to Choose Between Denture Implants and Partial Dentures

Wondering which denture solution is right for you? At our Calgary denture clinic, we offer affordable and quality tooth replacement options including partial dentures and denture implants, customized for your exact needs! 

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If you are missing one or more teeth, there are several tooth replacement options available to you including the more traditional full/partial dentures or great alternatives including overdentures and denture implants.

 Whatever option you choose, it’s important NEVER to ignore tooth loss because it can lead to many more serious issues down the road including:

• Increased risk of developing tooth decay and/or gum infections
• Further tooth loss
• Changes in facial structure
• Unwanted shifting of remaining teeth
• Loss of quality of life
• Difficulty chewing and speaking

Future Smiles is a leading denture clinic in Calgary and we offer affordable denture solutions from partial dentures to denture implants, as well as flexible payment plans and home calls, to ensure your smile stays beautiful and healthy for many years to come.

Partial Dentures or Denture Implants? Which One Should You Choose?

Replacing missing teeth isn’t as difficult as it was in the past and today, there are various tooth replacement options that a patient can choose from if they have experienced tooth loss from age, accidents or tooth decay.

Two of the most common denture solutions available to Calgary patients are partial dentures or denture implants. However, there are certain factors you must take into consideration when deciding which option is right for you.

Partial Dentures

Also commonly known as ‘false teeth’, partial dentures are replacement teeth which can be made out of porcelain, acrylic or cast metal.

A visit to your denturist is necessary to allow he/she to make a mould of your teeth & jaw, which will help to create a custom denture to match the shape, size and color of your remaining teeth.

Initial Fitting

An initial fitting is done once the partial denture is designed to make sure that they fit correctly and comfortably. Afterwards, subsequent appointments may be scheduled at your local denture clinic for any adjustments that need to be made.

PROS:

• A partial denture can be completed quickly after the initial fitting

• They are a cheaper option compared to denture implants

• Often recommended for patients weak jaws or sensitive gums, who are not candidates for denture implants.

CONS:

• Partial dentures require daily maintenance (brushing, soaking, rinsing) to ensure their longevity

• The lifespan of partial dentures is approximately 5 years, much shorter than denture implants

• Adhesives are required to ensure that the partial denture doesn’t dislodge while you are chewing or speaking

• May feel uncomfortable and cause mouth sores if they are not fitted properly

Denture Implants

Compared to full/partial dentures, denture implants are considered to be a more permanent tooth replacement option. This is a titanium post which is inserted into the jawbone, replicating the root of a natural tooth.

Once completely fused with the jaw bone, a carefully-crafted replacement tooth or partial denture is attached to the implant for increased stability. This can be used to replace a single or many missing teeth.

The procedure

The treatment starts with the titanium root being surgically set into the bone socket and jaw. This will eventually fuse with the jawbone over a period of 3-4 months.

Afterwards, a replacement tooth or partial denture is placed on top of the implant for a result that is a fully-functional and natural looking smile. 

PROS:

• A more secure tooth replacement option as it cannot be dislodged

• Functions and looks more like natural teeth compared to partial dentures

• Can be cleaned and maintained like natural teeth

• Protects jawbone from further deterioration

• If taken care of, denture implants can last many years, even a lifetime

CONS:

• Denture implants are more costly than partial dentures

• The surgical procedure is not suitable for every patient, especially those with weak jaws

• Surgery can lead to complications including excessive bleeding

• Requires several months of healing (3-6 months) before the denture implant treatment is complete

So Which Should You Choose?

Partial dentures are best for patients with weak jaws and gums and for those whose primary concern when choosing a tooth replacement option is the cost.

However, it’s important to keep in mind that while partial dentures may cost less initially, they will require repairs and, eventually, a full replacement, leading to higher costs down the road.

Denture implants are a popular choice for patients with healthy gums and who are looking for a permanent solution for missing teeth. With proper dental care, implant-supported dentures can last as long as 20 years without needing replacement.

 However, factors that may affect your candidacy for denture implants include: 

• Inadequate bone structure
• Presence of periodontal disease
• Bite complications
• Whether or not you are a smoker
• If you are taking medications such as blood thinners

Call Today

To find out more about our affordable and quality denture solutions including denture implants and full/partial dentures, contact our Calgary denture clinic at (403) 475-0016.