A missing tooth can have a drastic impact on your smile, oral health and your self-confidence. Cosmetically, when you have a gap in your teeth you may worry about other people noticing, leading you to hide or cover your mouth when you smile or talk. But there is also more going on inside your mouth. Missing teeth can lead to loss of jawbone; the bone gets its strength from biting and chewing so once the tooth is gone the bone weakens. You also increase your risk of gum disease and bacterial infections, and your remaining teeth can move out of alignment without the others keeping them in place. The good news is that dental implants and dentures are both viable options for replacing missing teeth and dealing with these issues. The best option for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences.
Here is a more detailed comparison of the two options:
Dental Implants
Dental implants are permanent replacements for lost teeth. Titanium fixtures are fused to the bone in your jaw, replicating a tooth root, and onto this a crown resembling a natural tooth is fitted. They are the most realistic option cosmetically, as well as being the best choice for longevity and usability.
Pros:
- Permanent replacement for teeth
- A natural look and feel
- Can last for many years
- Can improve your bite
- Can help prevent bone loss
- Can be used to support bridges and crowns
Cons:
- Expensive
- Requires surgery
- May require more maintenance
- May take several months to heal
Implants are very long lasting and the upkeep is the same as natural teeth. Although they are fitted with a surgical procedure, here at Cotteswold House maximum consideration is taken to patient comfort using a minimally invasive approach.
How much do dental implants cost?
The cost of implants varies considerably, depending on how many teeth need replacing, as well as their size and location in your mouth. Your personalised quotation will be given following your consultation, but as a guide prices start at around £3,000 per tooth. An initial implant consultation with Dr Guy Bailey is £100.
Dentures
Dentures are removable replacements for lost teeth. Unlike implants and bridges (a false tooth anchored to surrounding teeth), they don’t require bone for support as they are fitted to gums and bonded in place, which makes them a useful option amongst older patients whose bone density has deteriorated.
Pros:
- Less expensive than implants
- Removable
- Less invasive than implants
- Can be used immediately
- Can be used to treat multiple missing teeth
- Can be made to look and feel natural
Cons:
- Not as permanent as implants
- May not fit as well over time
- May require more maintenance
- May cause speech problems
- May cause gum irritation
There are two main types of dentures: full dentures and partial dentures. As the name suggests, full dentures completely cover the gums and replace all the teeth. Partial dentures cover one or a few missing teeth. It is also possible to secure dentures in your mouth with surrounding dental implants. Dentures are typically made from acrylic or chrome.
How much do dentures cost?
The cost of dentures depends on how many and which kind you choose. As a guide:
A partial acrylic set of dentures starts from £500
Full upper OR lower acrylic from £650
Full upper AND lower acrylic from £900
Chrome dentures from £850.
Your dentist will give you an accurate cost following a detailed discussion and examination.
Other things to consider
Ultimately, the best way to decide which option is right for you is to talk to your dentist. They can assess your individual needs and help you choose the best treatment for your smile.
Here are some additional things to consider when choosing between dental implants and dentures:
- Your age and overall health
- Your budget
- Your lifestyle
- Your expectations for the results
- Your level of comfort with surgery
- Your willingness to undergo ongoing maintenance
It is important to remember that there is no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to choosing between dental implants and dentures. The best option for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. Talk to your dentist to learn more about your options and choose the treatment that is right for you.
Next steps
If you have any questions about dental implants or dentures, or would just like to know more, please contact our Cotteswold House Dental Care team 01452 345635 or email appointments@cotteswoldhouse.co.uk to arrange an appointment.
Cotteswold House Dental Care is a family-owned dental practice that offers a relaxing and friendly atmosphere that can give you complete peace of mind whilst protecting your smile. As well as facial aesthetics, our in-house services include general dentistry, children’s dentistry, dental implants, dentures and bridges, whitening and composite bonding, advanced treatments such as root canals and oral surgery, Invisalign, and many more. We welcome referrals from other practices as well as self-referrals, and offer direct access for our BlancOne teeth whitening treatment.