Dentures are the removable appliance that are used to replace the lost tooth
There are normally two types of dentures
Complete Dentures: These are used when all natural teeth are missing in the upper, lower arch or both. Complete dentures are typically made of plastic like substance called acrylic or a combination of acrylic and metal. They adhere to gum tissue and are held in place by natural suction, denture adhesives.
Partial Dentures: these are used when some natural teeth remain in the mouth. The material will be similar to the complete dentures, Partial dentures have clasps or connectors that attach to the remaining natural teeth to help hold them in place.
Dental implants are the titanium devices surgically placed into the bone and mimicking the root structure of the tooth, they are used to replace the missing or lost tooth/ teeth.
The basic differences and which are better in a tabulated form
| Implants | Dentures | |
| Construction | titanium posts surgically implanted into the jawbone, mimicking the natural tooth root | Dentures are removable dental appliances made of acrylic or a combination of materials |
| Stability | very stable and provide a secure foundation for replacing teeth | less stable compared to implants |
| Appearance | feel like natural teeth as they are individually customized to match natural teeth | Modern dentures look natural, as the time progresses their natural appearance will fade. |
| Chewing Function | excellent to eat wide variety of food without restriction | Limited function |
| Comfort | Comfortable as they don’t require extra care | less comfortable |
| Longevity | long-term solution and can last for decades | need to be replaced every 5 to 7 years |
| Maintenance | Daily oral hygiene practices | require daily cleaning and removal at night, along with periodic adjustments by dentists |
| Bone | Implants stimulate the jawbone, preventing bone loss | lead to bone loss and causes the loose fit of the denture |
