For decades, dentures have been a popular option for people who have lost their natural teeth. They’re affordable, easy to get, and do a decent job restoring some functions of natural teeth. However, dental implants have emerged as a better alternative for people who want a more permanent, comfortable, and natural-looking solution to missing teeth.
Why Switch From Dentures to Dental Implants?
There are several reasons to consider transitioning from dentures to dental implants. Here are some of the most significant benefits:
- Improved comfort: Dental implants are surgically placed into the jawbone, which provides stability and support for the new teeth, preventing them from slipping or moving. This allows you to eat, speak, and smile confidently without discomfort or embarrassment.
- Better aesthetics: Dental implants look and feel like natural teeth, providing a more natural-looking appearance than dentures, which can appear fake or artificial.
- Improved oral health: Dental implants don’t require adhesives or special cleaning solutions like dentures. This makes them easier to maintain and can help improve overall oral health.
- Durability: Dental implants are a long-lasting tooth replacement, with a success rate of up to 98%. They can last a lifetime with proper care and maintenance, whereas dentures need to be replaced every few years.
- Improved quality of life: Dental implants can restore your ability to eat and speak properly, improving your self-confidence and overall quality of life.
Who Can Transition from Dentures to Dental Implants?
If you’re currently wearing dentures and are looking for a more permanent and comfortable solution, you may wonder if you’re a suitable candidate for dental implants. Generally, anyone who is in good overall health and has sufficient jawbone density can be considered for dental implants.
Other factors that can help determine if you’re a good candidate include:
- Missing teeth: If you have missing teeth or are currently wearing dentures, you may be a suitable candidate for dental implants.
- Good oral health: To undergo dental implant surgery, you need to have good oral health. This means that any existing dental problems, such as gum disease or tooth decay, need to be addressed before.
- Sufficient jawbone density: You need sufficient jawbone density to support a dental implant post. If you’ve been wearing dentures for a long time, you may have experienced bone loss, affecting your eligibility for dental implants. However, even if you have experienced bone loss, there are still options available, such as bone grafting, to help improve the jawbone density and make you eligible for dental implants.
- Good overall health: You must be in good overall health to undergo dental implant surgery. If you have any medical conditions that could affect the healing process, such as diabetes or autoimmune disorders, you may need to be evaluated by your doctor before proceeding.
What to Expect During the Transition?
Transitioning from dentures to dental implants typically involves several appointments with your dentist over a few months. The first step is to remove any remaining natural teeth and prepare the jawbone for the implant by making a small incision and inserting a titanium post into the jawbone. The post will then fuse with the bone over a few months, during which your dentist may attach a temporary crown or bridge to help you eat and speak comfortably.
Once the implant post fuses with the jawbone, your dentist attaches the abutment to the post, which serves as a connector for a dental crown or bridge. Finally, a custom-made crown or bridge is attached to the abutment, completing the restoration.
Costs of Replacing Dentures With Dental Implants
When considering transitioning from dentures to dental implants, the cost is a significant factor that influences decisions. While dental implants offer several advantages over dentures, they also come at a higher price.
The cost of dental implants varies depending on several factors, including:
- The number of teeth being replaced
- The type of dental implant used
- The need for supplemental procedures such as bone grafting
- The location and experience of the dental implant specialist performing the procedure
- The geographic location of the dental office
On average, the cost of a single dental implant can range from $1,000 to $6,000. The total cost of transitioning from dentures to dental implants may range from $3,000 to $30,000, depending on the above factors.
There are several financing options available to help patients afford the cost of dental implants. Dental offices may offer payment plans or financing options through third-party lenders. Some insurance plans may cover a portion of the cost of dental implants, although the coverage varies depending on the plan.
Finding a Dentist Near You
If you’re considering switching from dentures to dental implants, find a dentist near you who specializes in dental implant procedures. Look for a dentist who has extensive experience and training in implant dentistry, and who uses state-of-the-art technology and materials to ensure the best possible outcome.
You can search for a dentist near you by using online directories, checking reviews and ratings from other patients, or asking for recommendations from friends and family.