Every day, we receive calls from people who are frustrated with their dentures. It’s clear that many recognize the benefits of dental implants and would eagerly replace their dentures if given the chance. However, there’s more to consider. During consultations, I often realise that much is unknown to the public. In this blog post, I’ll reveal the pros and cons of both dentures and dental implants, specifically focusing on Dental Implants Sunshine Coast. While I have a preference for implants, I’ll discuss each option honestly to help you make the best decision.
When to Consider Dental Implants
Dental implants might be the right choice if:
  • Your dentures can’t be adjusted to fit your mouth.
  • You are tired of ill-fitting, loose dentures that irritate your gums.
  • You have multiple severely damaged, fractured, or missing teeth.
  • Your teeth are loose due to advanced gum disease (periodontitis).
  • Your teeth have been excessively worn down by grinding (bruxism).
Treatment Options at a Glance
If you’re in a hurry, here’s a quick summary of the pros and cons of dental implants and dentures:
Dental Implants
  • Look and feel like natural teeth
  • Do not affect speech or eating habits
  • No discomfort or mobility issues
  • More durable than dentures
  • May require bone or sinus grafting if the jawbone has deteriorated
  • Requires surgery and is a longer process
  • Higher cost
Dentures
  • More affordable
  • Less durable and need replacement every few years
  • Non-invasive, no surgery required
  • Cannot be worn overnight
  • May affect speech and eating habits
  • Can cause discomfort due to rubbing against gums
  • Easily damaged

Understanding Dental Implants

Individual Implants: If you are missing one or two teeth but the rest are in good condition, individual implants are ideal. A single implant (titanium screw) is surgically placed into the gum and jaw tissue. Once it bonds with the jawbone, a dental crown is attached.
Implant-Supported Bridge: For multiple missing teeth in a row, an implant-supported bridge is used. It consists of crowns attached to implants, bridging the gap effectively.
Full Mouth Implants (All on 4 and All on 6): Full mouth implants involve inserting titanium screws into the jawbone to support a bridge of artificial teeth. This can be removed by a dentist but is essentially fixed.

Understanding Dentures

Full Dentures: These are removable prostheses made of acrylic that rest on your gums. The top denture is held by suction, while the bottom one may move around more.
Partial Dentures: These are also removable but are more comfortable. They anchor to your remaining natural teeth using clips and can be made from various materials.
The Process
Dentures: The process involves several trips to the dentist for initial consultation, impressions, bite registration, and fitting. Adjusting to new dentures can be uncomfortable initially, with difficulty in eating and speaking until your mouth adapts.
Full Mouth Implants/All on 4: This involves several stages, starting with a consultation, followed by a Cone Beam CT scan to assess your jawbone. Surgery is performed under general anesthesia, and temporary teeth are fitted before the final bridge is attached after a healing period of 5-6 months.

Choosing Between Dentures and Dental Implants

Comfort: Implants are more comfortable as they do not press down on gums like dentures, which can move and cause irritation.
Gag Reflex: Implants are better if you have a strong gag reflex since they do not require coverage of the roof of the mouth.
Taste: Implants allow you to taste food better since they don’t cover the palate, unlike dentures.
Involvement: Dentures are less invasive and quicker to make. Implants, while more involved and requiring surgery, offer a permanent solution.
Cleaning: Both require cleaning, but implants need meticulous care to prevent peri-implantitis. Dentures can be removed for easier cleaning.
Night Wear: Dentures should be removed at night to prevent fungal infections. Implants do not pose this risk and can be worn overnight.
Grinding: For those who grind their teeth at night, a grinding plate can protect implants. Removable dentures prevent grinding damage.
Durability: While both dentures and implant-supported dentures may need replacement over time, implants generally offer longer-lasting solutions, especially with materials like zirconia or porcelain.
Pain: Implants typically cause less pain post-surgery compared to the ongoing discomfort that can come with dentures.
Cost Considerations
The cost of dental implants in Australia ranges from $23,000 – $27,000 per arch, while dentures range from $800 – $3,500. Although implants are a higher initial investment, they can be more cost-effective over a lifetime.
Suitability for Implants
Not everyone is suitable for implants. Factors include bone density, absence of gum disease, overall health, and age. Those under 25, smokers, or those with certain health conditions may not be ideal candidates.
Conclusion
At Coastal Dental Implants, we are committed to helping you choose the best option for your dental health. If you’re considering Dental Implants on the Sunshine Coast, we offer comprehensive consultations to assess your needs and suitability. Whether you opt for dentures or implants, our goal is to ensure you have a healthy, confident smile.
For more information or to schedule a consultation, contact us today.