Dental Implants Or Partial Dentures: Which Is Right For You?

Dental Implants

Dental implants are essentially artificial tooth roots, typically made of titanium, that are surgically anchored into the jawbone. Over time, they bond with your natural bone and act as a stable foundation to support one or more artificial teeth, known as implant crowns.

Pros:

• Permanent Solution: Once placed, healed, and properly cared for, dental implants can last many years, even up to a lifetime. This gives the closest feeling to natural teeth.
• Natural Appearance and Function: Mimicking the look and function of real teeth, dental implants have an authentic appearance and feel.
• Preserve Bone Structure: Implants can help prevent jawbone deterioration that occurs with missing teeth.
• No Impact on Adjacent Teeth: Unlike bridges, there’s no need to alter neighbouring teeth.
• No Dietary Restrictions: Since they’re fixed in place, there’s no need to avoid certain foods.

Cons:

• Surgical Procedure: Dental implants require a surgical procedure, which might not be suitable for everyone.
• Healing Time: The osseointegration process typically takes 4 to 6 months.

Partial Dentures

Partial dentures are removable replacements for missing teeth. They’re made from a combination of materials like acrylic, nylon and metal and are designed to clip onto your natural teeth and fit comfortably in the mouth, filling in the gaps left by lost teeth.

Pros:

• Flexibility: Being removable, they offer the flexibility to be taken out and put back as per the wearer’s convenience. This also makes them easy to clean and maintain.
• Non-Surgical: The procedure for partial dentures involves dental impressions which are generally less invasive than dental implants.
• Cost-Effective: Partial dentures are generally less expensive initially than dental implants.
• Quick Solution: Can be designed and fitted relatively quickly.
• Support to Natural Teeth: They can help prevent other teeth from moving or drifting into the space left by a missing tooth.
• Adjustments Over Time: As the shape of your mouth changes over time, partial dentures can be relined and adjusted as required.

Cons:

• Less Stable: Can move or become dislodged while eating and speaking.
• Regular Adjustments: Might require refitting or adjustments over time.

Final Thoughts

Choosing between dental implants and partial dentures often transcends mere functional benefits; it taps into personal preferences and lifestyle nuances. For instance, some individuals value the permanency of dental implants, appreciating the ‘set-it-and-forget-it’ approach they offer. The idea of not having to remove an appliance daily or worry about misplacement can be appealing. On the flip side, others might prefer partial dentures due to the minimal initial commitment they require. They appreciate the adaptability and the option to reconsider their decision down the track. Ultimately, the decision is deeply personal and hinges on what aligns best with one’s daily routine, comfort level and long-term oral health aspirations.

Article by Dr Anthony Hua – Principal Dentist

Dr Anthony Hua is the Founder & Principal Dentist at Burleigh Dental Studio. His passion, expertise and dedication to the field of dentistry have been recognised by his achievement of Fellowship status with the Australian Society of Implant Dentistry (ASID) and the International Congress of Oral Implantologists (ICOI).