Losing teeth can be difficult for both your dental health and self-confidence. You may be understandably hesitant about leaving gaps in your smile, making it important to thoroughly research your restoration options. 

Two of the most common choices are dental implants or dentures—but which is right for you? As oral surgeons at Nevada OMS, we’re here to provide the facts on both procedures so you can make the best decision for your unique situation. 

Let’s start with dental implants. An implant is a small titanium screw that replaces the root of a missing tooth, acting as an anchor within your jawbone. A small post is then attached above the gum line, allowing a custom-made crown or bridge to secure onto it. This mimics the look and feel of natural teeth. Some key benefits of implants include:

– Permanence – Once healed, implants won’t need to be removed at night or for cleaning like dentures. They fuse with your jawbone for secure long-term function.

– Comfort – Implants are fixed in place, so they won’t cause irritation or slippage. You’ll feel confident eating any type of food.

– Aesthetics – Implants and crowns are indistinguishable from natural teeth, restoring your full smile. 

– Bone preservation – By supporting your jawbone, implants help maintain bone density over time where teeth are missing. This reduces future issues.

Of course, implants do require an upfront investment—typically between $3,000-$4,000 per tooth. You’ll also need at least two to six months of healing time after placement. Another potential drawback is that your existing bone thickness needs to be sufficient at placement sites. Bone grafting may be required for some patients.

Meanwhile, traditional dentures provide an affordable short-term option to replace missing teeth. Dentures are made from a plastic base that sits over your gums, with artificial teeth attached. 

Some benefits include:

– Low cost – Complete dentures usually cost around $1,000-$2,000, which is significantly less than implants. 

– Quick results – Dentures can be fabricated and placed in just one or two appointments, as opposed to months with implants.

– Removability – Dentures slip in and out for cleaning and storage, allowing your gums to “rest.”

However, dentures also come with compromises like:

– Instability – Even the best-fitting dentures may slip or cause sore spots, requiring frequent adjustments. 

– Appearance – Dentures won’t look 100% natural and can have a loose fit over time as the bone shrinks.

– Diet restrictions – Eating hard foods with dentures requires special care to prevent displacement.

So who is a better candidate for dental implants vs dentures? 

As your trusted oral surgeons, we recommend considering the following factors:

– Jawbone health – Implants generally work better if your bone is thick enough, while dentures may be the only choice if the bone is thin. 

– Age – Younger patients tend to tolerate implants better long-term as bone density is higher. Dentures suit temporary or late-life use.

– Lifestyle – Does your job involve physical risks to dentures? Do you want to eat anything? Implants may provide better function and comfort. 

– Budget – Understand costs for the lifetime of each option. Dentures provide an affordable solution but implants often save money in the long run. Payment plans are available.

– Commitment – Implants are a multi-step process that requires dedication to healing and follow-up visits. Will you make this a priority?

Our team at Nevada OMS can assess your unique case factors, analyze X-rays, perform examinations, and answer all your questions in a detailed consultation. We’ll help you determine the restoration method best for your oral and overall health goals. With either option, regaining your smile’s confidence and function is within reach. Simply give us a call today to start your journey.