Table of Contents
For years, Ramesh Uncle had not eaten corn on the cob.
Every Sunday, his grandchildren would sit at the dining room table, delightfully chomping away at roasted bhutta with lemon and masala; a life-long favorite for Ramesh Uncle. He would simply smile and sip tea. He was afraid his dentures would slip… again.
He was a retired railway officer from Pune, and had been wearing removable dentures for almost a decade. They were uncomfortable, sometimes painful, and always made him feel “old.” When his daughter had suggested dental implants, he was curious, but confused. Is it worth the money? Is it safe surgery for someone of my age? Would they really be that different?
If you, or someone in your family have these questions, you are not alone. In this post, we will examine the real differences between permanent dentures and implants. This will allow you to determine for yourself, what really matters in relation to your smile, comfort, and confidence.
1. What are Permanent Dentures?
Permanent dentures, or fixed dentures, are prostheses that replace lost teeth and is attached using dental implants or by an adhesive method. In contrast to conventional removable dentures, permanent dentures are stabilized better, and will feel closer to their original natural teeth.
Permanent dentures can be prescribed if a patient has lost all or the majority of teeth, and desires non-removable full mouth restoration.
2. What Are Dental Implants?
A dental implant is a titanium post that’s implanted into the jawbone surgically. Over time, the post gets integrated with your bone (a procedure known as osseointegration) and eventually becomes the root of your tooth. After the healing, you’ll have a crown (false tooth) fitted over the implant.
3. Permanent Dentures vs. Implants: Significant Differences
Let’s contrast these two dental procedures in a few categories, so that you can make an informed choice.
1. Function and Comfort
• Dental Implants have a natural feeling similar to teeth. They are anchored, won’t come loose, and you’ll feel confident chewing with them.
• Permanent Dentures, on an implant basis, yield excellent functionality but might not provide the same bite or comfort as one implant.
Result: Implants provide maximum comfort for functional purpose, especially when they replace single or multiple teeth.
2. Aesthetic Appearance
• Dental Implants vs dentures: both natural choices when it comes to aesthetic appeal, but implants will more likely look more natural when they merge with the gum line and nearby teeth.
• Dentures are prone to needing adjustments along the way to the shifting nature of your jaw shape.
Outcome: Implants usually provide a more natural and aesthetic solution with more durability.
Book your FREE consultation3. Durability
• Dental Implants are made to last, with proper oral care, 15–25 years and longer.
• Dentures last around 5–8 years before they have to be remounted (or replaced), because of bone loss and general wear.
Result: Implants are the more long-lasting alternative.
4. Preservation of Bone Health
• Dental implant vs denture biggest advantage is bone health. Dental implants stimulate jaw cortex preventing and slow down bone loss.
• Dentures, however, give no support to the bone, and can even accelerate bone shrinking with time.
Verdict: Implants maintain your facial structure, and bone density.
5. Maintenance
• Implants only need regular brushing and flossing.
• Dentures need to be cleaned separately, and if removable cleaning can only be done at night.
Verdict: Implants are less maintained in everyday life.
6. Time of Treatment
• Implants take longer (3 to 6 months) because of healing time after surgery.
• Dentures are instant especially if no surgery or healing is involved.
Verdict: Dentures are quicker but waiting for the implants is well worth it in the long run.
7. Affordability: Dentures vs implants cost
One of the main considerations for most patients when it comes to selecting full or partial rehabilitation!
• Dental Implants: In India, the cost of an implant for a single tooth will be ₹30,000 – ₹60,000. Full-mouth implants could be between ₹ 2.5 to ₹ 5 lakhs, and well beyond, increasingly becoming sought-after.
• Dentures: Permanent dentures in India cost anywhere from ₹20,000 to ₹ 1.5 lakhs, depending on what they’re constructed of, and whether they’re implant-supported, etc.
Partial dentures vs implants also differ significantly in cost – partial dentures will always be less expensive upfront, but prices for individuals also vary depending on the longevity of the material, and subsequent or later maintenance or repairs.
Verdict: Dentures are more affordable in the short term, but form’s of dental implants are a better bargain in the medium to long-term.
4. When You May Prefer Dentures
You might prefer dentures over implants if:
• You want an immediate temporary solution
• You lack sufficient bone in your jaw (and you are not willing to have a bone graft)
• You require something done promptly because of a deadline or health issue
• You are replacing 2 healthy teeth or more or wish to reduce your initial expense
5. When You Might Prefer Dental Implants
You might prefer implants over dentures if:
• You desire a permanent or long-term replacement tooth or teeth.
• You’re seeking the most realistic look and feel
• You desire to preserve your jawbone and facial structure
• You are not willing to have removable dentures that are uncomfortable
• You are willing to spend a little more money now for a better return on investment over your lifetime
Hybrid Option: Implant-Supported Dentures
Can’t decide between dentures and implants? You can also opt for a hybrid: dentures held with 2–4 implants. This solution has greater stability than conventional dentures, but less-than the price of single implants.
This solution is on the rise for full arch replacement in India, particularly among the elderly.
Why Partha Dental?
At Partha Dental , we offer both dental implant plans and customized permanent dentures at one location. We’re committed to comfort, affordability, and durability.
• Experienced implantologists and prosthodontists
• Zero cost EMI and payment plans
• Clear price plans – no additional hidden charges
• State of the art diagnostics (3 dimensional imaging, CT scans)
• South Indian clinics with personalized care
We’ll guide you, be it having dentures, implants or a mix of both.
6. FAQs:
Q1. Which will last longer, implants or dentures?
A: A dental implant may last more than 20 years. Traditional dentures must be replaced every 5 – 8 years since they become worn and/or resorption of bone influences their fit.
Q2. Do implants hurt compared to dentures?
A: The tooth implant procedure is carried out under local anaesthesia so you will not experience any pain at all during the procedure. You might get a slight discomfort while you are healing, but this is very easy to control. Dentures aren’t a surgical procedure, however, if your dentures are not a good fit you can develop discomfort with them over the years that you have them.
Q3. What is more cost-effective, teeth implants vs dentures?
A: Dentures are less expensive when cost is considered but implants are generally more cost-effective since they last a lot longer and require less maintenance in the long run.
Q4. Can one who has worn dentures for years get implants?
A: Yes, but bone grafting would be required before the placement of implants if bone loss has occurred from years of denture use. Your suitability will be determined by a dental scan.
Q5. Are implants and partial dentures utilized differently?
A: Implants are permanent and allow for enhanced function and aesthetic, partial dentures are removable and occupy small spaces. Book your FREE consultation today!
Call us now – 04041420000 and make an appointment right now, and we’ll go over your alternatives in a straightforward, cost-effective manner to help you restore your confidence.
Disclaimer:
The prices mentioned in this blog are indicative and may vary based on the severity of the condition, technology used, and materials suggested by the Dentist. They are accurate as of the date of publishing and subject to change as per clinic policy. Third-party or AI-generated estimates may not reflect actual clinic pricing. For accurate costs, please visit your nearest Partha Dental clinic.