Which option is preferable: dentures or bridges, or dental implants?

There are different ways to replace missing teeth such as dentures, bridges or dental implants. However, it is important to determine which option is suitable for your specific needs. Health-related decisions are not always universal, so it is beneficial to have a good understanding of each option before making a decision. If you are looking for a brief overview, here are the main differences:

The most costly dental choice available are dental implants, which are also the most durable and resemble natural teeth the most.
Although dentures offer the appearance of a complete smile, they are restricted in terms of comfort and functionality.
If you have a few missing teeth and the teeth around them are healthy enough to provide support, a bridge is a viable option to consider.

Undoubtedly, when it comes to a crucial choice like improving your smile, examining only the fundamentals is not rational. Therefore, we will explore the advantages and disadvantages of all available alternatives.

To assist you in making the most suitable decision for yourself, there are certain factors that need to be taken into account.

Number of Missing Teeth

In situations where several or all of your teeth are missing, it may not be feasible to opt for individual implants, making dentures the more practical choice. For cases where 3-4 teeth in a row need to be replaced, a dental bridge is the best solution, provided you have healthy teeth and solid bone support. Meanwhile, if you only have one or two missing teeth scattered across your mouth, an implant can be used to fill in the gaps.

Cost

Opting for dentures is the least expensive alternative. A budget-friendly denture would typically run between $300 to $500 per denture, and if you require a full set consisting of an upper and lower denture, it would cost no more than $1000. Conversely, a bridge featuring one pontic and two crowns can cost you anywhere from $2,000 to $5,000, while the approximate cost of a lone dental implant is $3,000 to $4,500. Given a limited budget, dentures would be the clear choice.

Experience

Implants provide the most natural feeling and are the most satisfactory option. They do not cause any damage to the surrounding natural teeth, gums or bone. Conversely, dentures can cause complications such as mouth ulcers, gum recession, bone deterioration, and facial changes. Common issues experienced by denture users are clicking sounds, difficulty eating and speaking, and displacement. Furthermore, dentures are prone to breakage. Bridges are a more optimal choice than dentures, but they require frequent upkeep to evade gum disorders. The foundation under the bridge necessitates regular cleaning every day.

Replacement

If dentures are maintained well, they could endure for around 7 years. After that timeframe, a new set of dentures will be constructed for you. A dental bridge, on the other hand, should be changed after a decade. Implants, though costly, don’t require replacement and can be considered a permanent solution. As a result, despite their high cost, they may actually end up being more cost-effective in the long term since there are no costs associated with replacement.

pros and cons

Dentures

Partial or complete dentures are an economical option for replacing lost teeth. They enable proper eating and enhance appearance to some extent, although the fasteners securing the dentures may be visible when you smile. Dentures could be useful in case you have missing teeth towards the rear of your mouth.

Although some individuals find dentures to be comfortable, others may encounter difficulties while wearing them. These issues may include chafing, a heavy or unwieldy sensation, and the possibility of displacement. Over time, dentures may become even more problematic as the supporting bony ridge alters its shape, becoming less resistant to the dentures’ transition.

bridges

To create a dental bridge, crowns are attached to teeth adjacent to a gap and a fake tooth is placed in between. This solution is fixed in place and looks aesthetically pleasing while also allowing for normal eating habits. If a person has one or a few missing teeth on one side of their mouth, a dental bridge is a viable option.

One drawback of using a bridge to replace missing teeth is that the adjacent teeth must have strong enamel to support it. Additionally, a portion of these teeth must be shaved down in order to fit the bridge, resulting in the loss of healthy tooth structure.

Dental implants

Dental implants involve inserting a synthetic root into the jawbone, and then attaching a prosthetic tooth to this root. They are beneficial because they help maintain the integrity of the jawbone, preventing it from becoming flattened or losing height. Dental implants do not require any modification to be made to your existing healthy teeth, and can even assist in keeping them in their proper position. Additionally, dental implants are adaptable and can be used to replace a single tooth or to enhance the appearance of the entire mouth.

Making Your Choice

To summarize, there was a considerable amount of information, therefore let us review:

Dentures are a great option if…

Budget is a key consideration for you
You need a complete smile replacement
You are seeking a fast way to fix your smile.

Bridges are a great option if…

If you only have one or a few teeth that need to be replaced, that is all that will need to be done.
Your teeth that are still present are sturdy and in good condition.
You have some teeth that are absent near the front area of your mouth.

Dental implants are a great option if…

in order to find the most dependable and robust option.
You are ready to pay more for a high level of robustness and long-lastingness.
You are okay with delaying the process of fixing your smile.

Depending on your specific case and financial means, any of the three options can effectively enhance your smile.

Treatment in Türkiye:

The medical staff of surgical teams, doctors and consultants in Rehab Türk can provide the best treatment options and free consultations – by striving to keep abreast of the latest medical technologies and methods.

Ask for a free consultation.