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Are you weighing your options between full mouth dental implants and traditional dentures?
This blog will help you understand the key differences and pros and cons of each option so that you can make the best choice for your needs and lifestyle.
Table of Contents
- What Are Full Mouth Dental Implants?
- Traditional Dentures: A Closer Look
- Full Mouth Implants vs. Dentures: Which Is Best for You?
- Schedule a Consultation with an Experienced Oral Surgeon
Key Takeaway
Full mouth dental implants feel like natural teeth, last longer, and protect your jawbone, but they require surgery and cost more upfront. Dentures are more affordable and do not need surgery, but they can slip, need regular adjustments, and do not prevent bone loss over time.
What Are Full Mouth Dental Implants?
Full mouth dental implants provide a durable, stable, and natural-looking replacement for missing teeth.
Titanium implants are embedded into your jawbone, providing a firm anchor for artificial teeth that closely resemble the appearance and function of natural teeth.
This option is ideal if you are looking for a permanent, reliable solution that requires minimal adjustments over time.
Types of Full Mouth Dental Implants
- All-on-4 dental implants
A unique approach that uses just four implants per arch to support a full set of replacement teeth. This minimizes the need for bone grafting and is often suitable even if you have some bone loss. - Implant-supported dentures
This hybrid option combines the security of implants with the removability of dentures. The implants anchor the denture securely, preventing shifting and slipping. - Dental implants
Individual implants are placed for each missing tooth, providing the closest resemblance to natural teeth. While highly natural, this option often requires more implants and may involve additional costs.
Key Benefits of Dental Implants
- Natural look and feel
Implants are much like natural teeth because they are fixed into your jawbone. - Long-term durability
Implants can last a lifetime, which reduces the need for replacements or adjustments. - Bone health
Implants stimulate the jawbone, which helps prevent bone loss and maintain your facial structure, making you look younger.
Drawbacks of Dental Implants
- Higher initial cost
Implants generally cost more upfront compared to traditional dentures. - Surgical procedure required
Implant surgery involves a longer healing process, and you will need temporary teeth during this period.
Traditional Dentures: A Closer Look
Traditional dentures are removable prosthetic teeth that provide a non-surgical, quicker way to replace missing teeth.
If you want to avoid surgery or are looking for a more budget-friendly option, dentures may be the right choice.
Types of Dentures
- Complete dentures
Designed for those missing all teeth in an upper or lower arch. Removable dentures rely on suction and adhesive for stability, though they can sometimes shift, especially in the lower arch. - Partial dentures
If you have some remaining healthy teeth, partial dentures can be an option to fill in the gaps, attaching to the adjacent teeth for additional support. - Immediate dentures
These are placed right after tooth extraction, offering a temporary solution while your gums heal.
Advantages of Dentures
- Affordable and accessible
Dentures are typically more affordable than implants and can be completed quickly without surgery. - Easy to adjust and replace
Dentures can be easily adjusted over time to fit changes in your mouth.
Drawbacks of Dentures
- Less stability
Dentures do not anchor into the bone, which can lead to slipping or discomfort. - Bone loss over time
Dentures do not stimulate the jawbone, which leads to bone loss and changes in facial structure over time.
Full Mouth Implants vs. Dentures: Which Is Best for You?
Your decision will depend on factors like cost, bone health, and lifestyle preferences.
Below is a table that highlights the main differences.
| Feature | Full Mouth Dental Implants | Traditional Dentures |
| Best for | Those seeking a long-term, permanent solution | Those looking for an affordable, non-surgical option |
| Surgical procedure | Required (implant surgery) | None (non-surgical procedure) |
| Longevity | Lasts a lifetime with proper care | 5-10 years, may require replacement over time |
| Stability | Highly stable; implants fuse to the jawbone for a secure fit | Less stable; can slip or shift |
| Bone health | Stimulates bone growth, preventing bone loss | Does not prevent bone loss, can accelerate jawbone shrinkage |
| Comfort | Feels like natural teeth | Can cause sore spots and discomfort |
| Maintenance | Regular cleaning, minimal adjustments | Requires adhesives, frequent adjustments for fit |
| Cost | Higher upfront cost, but more cost-effective long-term | More affordable, but may require more maintenance over time |
| Appearance | Natural look and feel, closely mimics real teeth | Less natural look and feel, can look bulky or unnatural |
| Recovery time | Months of healing period | Immediate use, no recovery required |
| Bone graft | May be necessary if bone loss is present | No bone grafting required |
Schedule a Consultation with an Experienced Oral Surgeon
If you are considering implants or dentures, it is best to consult a specialist who can assess your oral health, bone density, and personal goals.
If you would like to discuss your options, book a consultation with Dr. J. Travis Thompson, DDS, or Dr. Stephen Martin, DMD.
To book an appointment at our oral surgery office in Deer Park, IL, call (847) 381-0106 or complete the online inquiry form. We are located at 21660 W. Field Parkway, Suite 220, Deer Park, IL.
