Here at Texas Implant and Dental Center, our experienced team always wants to make sure that our patients receive the best care possible, and part of that is helping you make the best decisions for your health! Choosing between all-on-4 dental implants and dentures can feel overwhelming. Both options offer unique benefits and drawbacks. To help you navigate this decision, we’ll delve into the specifics of each treatment, discussing its advantages, disadvantages, duration, longevity, and more. In this article, award-winning dental implant specialist, Dr. Damon Clark, shares his thoughts.
What Are All-on-4 Dental Implants?
All-on-4 dental implants are a complete set of implants designed to replace your entire row of teeth. They are a permanent, non-removable solution that provides the same function as your natural teeth. This treatment involves placing four titanium implants into your jawbone as the main anchors. These implants act as a foundation for a bridge or overdenture, which holds the prosthetic teeth.
What Are Dentures?
Dentures, on the other hand, are removable replacements for missing teeth and surrounding tissues. There are two types of dentures available: complete and partial. Complete dentures are used when all the teeth are missing, while partial dentures are used when some natural teeth remain. Dentures are custom-made to fit your mouth and visually match your existing teeth.
Benefits of All-on-4 Dental Implants
- Natural Look and Feel: All-on-4 dental implants mimic the appearance and function of natural teeth. This means you can eat, talk, and smile with confidence.
- Bone Loss Prevention: One key advantage of all-on-4 dental implants is their ability to prevent bone loss. They stimulate the jawbone like natural tooth roots, helping maintain its health and structure. This is one of the biggest benefits, as bone loss can result in further health complications. For more information on this, please get in touch with our dental office.
- Durability: Implants are more durable and longer-lasting than dentures. With proper care, they can last a lifetime.
Disadvantages of All-on-4 Dental Implants
- Cost: All-on-4 dental implants can be costly. However, considering their longevity and functionality, many find it a worthwhile investment.
- Requires Surgery: The implant process involves surgery, which can be a deterrent for some individuals.
- Healing Time: It can take several months for your mouth to fully heal from the implant procedure and for the implants to integrate with your jawbone fully.
Benefits of Dentures
- Cost-Effective: In general, dentures are less expensive than dental implants. This makes them a popular choice for those on a tight budget.
- Non-Surgical Option: Dentures offer a non-surgical alternative for those who may be unable or unwilling to undergo surgery for implants.
- Quick Solution: The process of getting dentures is typically quicker than the implant process. This allows for faster restoration of aesthetic appearance and function.
Disadvantages of Dentures
- Comfort and Fit: Dentures may not fit as comfortably as implants, and they can move around in the mouth, causing potential discomfort and difficulty while eating or speaking.
- Maintenance: Dentures require daily removal and cleaning. They also need to be replaced more often than implants.
- Bone Loss: Dentures do not provide the same bone stimulation as natural teeth or implants, potentially leading to bone loss over time.
How Long Does Each Treatment Take?
The all-on-4 dental implant procedure typically involves two main phases. The first phase involves the surgical placement of the implants, while the second phase, which occurs after a healing period of 3-6 months, involves the placement of the permanent prosthetic teeth. Dentures, on the other hand, usually require several weeks. This includes preliminary visits for impressions, fitting, and adjustments.
How Long Do They Last?
With proper care, all-on-4 dental implants can last a lifetime. The prosthetic teeth may need replacement after 10-15 years due to normal wear and tear. Dentures typically last between 5-8 years. However, they may need adjustment over time due to changes in the gums and bone structure.
FAQ from Existing Patients
As one of the top Implant & Dental Centers in Fort Worth, we often get questions from patients. Here are our most frequently asked questions about all-on-4 dental implants when compared to dentures:
Which option is more comfortable, all-on-4 dental implants or dentures?
Comfort largely depends on individual preferences and circumstances. All-on-4 dental implants are often seen as more comfortable because they act like natural teeth and don’t move around. Dentures may initially cause some discomfort, but most people adjust to them over time.
Can I switch from dentures to all-on-4 dental implants?
Yes, many patients switch from dentures to all-on-4 dental implants for increased stability, comfort, and functionality. It’s best to discuss this with our dentist, who can assess your oral health and determine if you’re a good candidate for the procedure.
What’s the success rate of all-on-4 dental implants?
The success rate of all-on-4 dental implants is quite high, with studies reporting rates above 90%. The exact rate can depend on various factors, including your overall health, oral hygiene, and lifestyle habits.
Are there dietary restrictions with dentures or all-on-4 dental implants?
Both options will allow you to eat most foods. However, dentures may make it challenging to eat hard or sticky foods, especially when you’re not used to them. All-on-4 dental implants function like natural teeth, allowing you to eat a wider variety of foods with ease.
We offer Dentures & All-on-4 Implants in Fort Worth, TX!
Choosing between all-on-4 dental implants and dentures is a significant decision that depends on your personal needs, health, and budget. Both options offer solutions to missing teeth and aim to improve your quality of life. It’s recommended to discuss these options thoroughly with our dentist, who can provide guidance based on your specific situation. The goal is to help you make an informed decision that best suits your lifestyle and enhances your smile. For more information about your dental care options, it’s important that you contact our dental care center today. The Texas Implant & Dental Center of Fort Worth team looks forward to meeting you in person and helping you achieve all of your dental health goals.
Book
Drive
Call