Dental implants and partial dentures share a couple of common features. They are both restorative dental treatments that replace missing teeth to complete your smile. They both use prostheses (artificial teeth) to restore your smile. Both may even require the use of surgical implants. But that’s where the similarities end. Read on to learn about the differences between dental implants vs partial dentures.
Dental Implants and Dentures: How They Work
Dental implants use a post (also called a screw) that is surgically implanted in the jawbone to support an artificial tooth (prostheses). Partial dentures may also use a dental implant to support the partial denture (known as “snap-on” dentures). But, partial dentures that do not require implants are also available (known as removable dentures). A removable partial denture uses a gum-colored plastic base and metal to attach to the adjacent teeth.
Dental Implants vs. Dentures: How Long Do They Last?
In terms of durability, dental implants are the superior restorative treatment. Dental implants can be expected to last at least 20 years, and often much longer with excellent oral hygiene and routine dental cleanings and exams. Both the implant and the crown attached to it may even last your entire life without needing to be replaced.
If you opt for an implant-supported partial denture, the implanted post or screw will boast excellent durability. However, the denture may need to be replaced every 10-15 years. If you opt for a removable partial denture, you will likely need to replace it every 5-7 years.
Dental Implants vs Partial Dentures: Cost Comparison
Dental implants are the most expensive type of dental restoration, in terms of upfront costs. Dental implants require surgery, and premium-quality materials, so they can be costly. However, dental implants offer myriad oral health benefits that often drive down your oral health care costs over time. For example, dental implants can reduce your risk of further tooth loss, stabilize nearby teeth, and help prevent gum disease.
Removable partial dentures are less expensive upfront than dental implants or implant-supported dentures. However, they will need to be replaced more frequently, which can drive costs up over time.
Dental Implants vs. Partial Dentures: Timeline for a Restored Smile
If you want your smile restored as quickly as possible, a removable partial denture will complete your smile quicker than dental implants or an implant-supported partial denture. This is because implants require not only surgery, but several months of recovery so that a process called osseointegration can take place. Osseointegration is the process by which the jawbone and soft tissues grow up the implant, fusing it to the bone, so that it can support the artificial tooth. Osseointegration may take up to six months. By contrast, you can often receive a partial, removable denture in just weeks.
Frequently Asked Questions about Dental Implants
Are Partial Dentures Covered By Insurance?
Many dental insurance plans do offer an allowance for partial, removable dentures. However, they rarely offer coverage for dental implants or implant-supported dentures.
Do You Offer Financing for Dental Implants?
We are pleased to accept third-party financing via CareCredit or the Citi Health Card. Some Health Savings Accounts (HSA) or Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) may be used to finance dental implants.
Schedule an Appointment to Learn More About Dental Implants or Partial Dentures
If you’re ready to restore your smile, chewing capability, and self-confidence, schedule an appointment at Metrowest Prosthodontics In Framingham, MA. We will be happy to help you select the best prosthodontic treatment to restore your smile to excellent health and appearance. Call 508-620-6622 or send us a message. To best serve our busy patients, we begin seeing patients at 7:00 am Monday-Friday.