If you have one or more missing teeth, you may be wondering if dental implants, dental bridges, or partial dentures are right for you. In this blog from Downey Park Family Dentistry, we’ll compare dental implants against dentures and bridges, including cost and lifespan, and help you learn more about your options for smile restoration in Modesto.
Dental implants typically are the most expensive option for replacing teeth, since they require surgery and multiple follow-up appointments. However, their long lifespan does help make up for this large initial investment.
Dental bridges are usually cheaper than dental implants, especially if you have 2+ adjacent missing teeth. Bridges are ideal for these situations. They are also usually covered in part by dental insurance.
Finally, partial dentures are usually the cheapest way to restore your smile. They’re also covered by dental insurance in most cases, making them a good low-cost alternative. When comparing the cost of implants vs dentures, implants typically cost more.
Dental implants have the longest lifespan of any tooth replacement. Most patients will keep their implants for 30+ years. If you want a permanent, long-lasting solution for missing teeth, implants are the best choice.
Dental bridges are quite durable, but still don’t last nearly as long as dental implants. They usually last up to 10-15 years before requiring replacement.
The lifespan of partial dentures mostly depends on their materials and construction. Most types of partial dentures last between 5-10 years before they wear out and require replacement.
Dental implants are the most comfortable and convenient tooth replacement option. You can brush and floss your implants just like natural teeth, and you don’t need to take any other special steps to care for them. Since they’re firmly anchored to your jaw bone, they also will never shift or move when you bite, chew, or speak.
Dental bridges are pretty comfortable, but are a bit bulkier compared to implants, and it may take some more adjustment to get used to them. You also will need to take some special steps to clean the bridge and the gums below the bridge. However, your bridge will not move, since it is securely anchored to your teeth with dental crowns.
Partial dentures are also fairly comfortable. Unlike full mouth dentures, they attach to healthy teeth, so they usually do not move much, if at all. After a little bit of adjustment, you can eat, chew, and speak normally. However, partial dentures need to be removed at night and cleaned regularly, so they’re not quite as convenient as dental implants or dental bridges. When comparing implants vs dentures, every patient is different and may be better suited to one treatment over the other.
We hope this comparison of implants vs. dentures and bridges has been helpful, and that you’ve learned a bit more about your options for tooth replacement in Modesto. If you’re ready to take the next steps, get a consultation with Dr. Corey Acree, and see which treatment may be right for you, don’t wait. Contact Downey Park Family Dental in Modesto online or give us a call at (209) 529-0674.