As we age, our teeth can go through a lot of wear and tear. Especially if we clench or grind them or have had a lot of dental work in the past. If you’ve experienced advanced gum disease, you may only have a few teeth left to begin with. There comes a time when we may need to replace our natural teeth with artificial ones. This is where dentures and dental implants come into play. At Eastport Dental in Mesa, Arizona, we offer both treatment options for our patients. The key to choosing the best one is deciding how their advantages fit your unique personal needs and smile goals.
Benefits of Dentures
Dentures have been a popular choice for replacing missing teeth for centuries. Today’s dentures are usually made from an acrylic base with teeth designed to complement your facial features. They are removable and affordable, making them a good option for patients on a budget. Dentures are also easy to clean and maintain, making them a convenient option for those with busy schedules.
Removable dentures come in two types: complete and partial. Complete dentures are used when all teeth are missing, while partial dentures are used to snap into place around the healthy teeth you still have. Dentures cover your entire arch (jaw,) while partials are a slimmer framework that only fills in specific teeth.
Advantages of All-on-4 Implants
All-on-4 implants, also known as full arch implants, are a newer option for replacing missing teeth. They are a fixed and permanent solution that provides our patients with a natural-looking and functioning restoration that closely mirrors anatomical teeth. All-on-4 implants use four titanium posts that are surgically placed in the jawbone to support a permanent, streamlined appliance. The hybrid device is like a permanent denture, but it only follows the curve of your smile rather than the entire roof of your mouth.
One major advantage of All-on-4 implants is that implants themselves help prevent bone loss in the jaw, which is a common issue with long-term denture wear. The implants stimulate the bone, keeping it healthy and preventing deterioration. All-on-4 implants are typically more comfortable than dentures, as they do not move or shift in the mouth. You can almost think of them like an extended dental bridge.
Cost of Dentures vs. All-on-4
The cost of dentures vs. All-on-4 implants is a common concern for most people because one is much more of an up-front investment than the other. Dentures are generally more affordable than All-on-4 implants, as they do not require surgery or the use of expensive materials. The cost of dentures can vary depending on the type of denture and the materials used to create them. However, they do require occasional replacement, so they are not a one-time purchase.
All-on-4 implants, on the other hand, are a larger upfront investment due to the surgical procedure involved and the use of high-quality materials. However, it’s important to note that All-on-4 implants are a long-term investment in your oral health and can last a lifetime with proper care.
Budgeting and Payment Plan Options
At Eastport Dental, we understand that the cost of dental procedures can be a burden for some patients. That’s why we offer flexible payment plans and financing options to make dental care more accessible.
We work with most dental insurance providers and offer in-house financing options for patients without insurance. We also accept CareCredit, a healthcare credit card that allows patients to finance their dental procedures with low monthly payments. That way, no matter which tooth replacement you choose, you can easily work the cost into your monthly budget.
Which is Best for Me?
Choosing between dentures and All-on-4 implants depends on several factors, including your budget, oral health, and personal preferences. Dentures are a good option for patients on a budget who are looking for a removable and convenient solution to missing teeth. All-on-4 implants are a better option for patients who want a permanent solution that looks and feels like natural teeth and prevents bone loss.
Dr. Huynh, our experienced dentist at Eastport Dental, will conduct a thorough examination of your oral health and discuss your options with you to determine the best course of treatment for your specific needs. He will also answer any questions you may have about the procedure, recovery time, and aftercare.
If you’re planning to replace your missing teeth or upgrade your dentures soon, call our Mesa dentist today to discuss which option is best for you!
