DENTAL IMPLANTS VS. DENTURES - HOUSTON, TX
Dental Implants Vs. Dentures
Dental implants vs dentures is often the first major decision patients face when replacing missing teeth. At Dr. Friedberg & Associates here in Houston, TX, we guide you through both options so you can make a confident and informed choice. Because every smile is different, it’s important to understand the cost, comfort, durability, and long-term impact on your oral health. Dentures are removable and sometimes more affordable at first, yet they can lead to bone loss and discomfort. In contrast, dental implants offer a stable, permanent solution that closely mimics natural teeth and helps preserve the jawbone. The American Academy of Implant Dentistry reports that implants have a long, proven success rate and are considered the gold standard in modern tooth replacement.
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How Dental Implants Are Built: Three Parts
Dental Implants
Both dental implants in Houston, TX and traditional dentures provide solutions for missing teeth, yet they differ greatly in design, comfort, and long-term performance. While dentures sit on the gums and may shift over time, dental implants anchor directly into the jawbone, closely mimic natural tooth roots, and preserve bone structure. Because this strong foundation supports the bite, implants deliver a more stable, functional, and aesthetically pleasing option for many patients.
Crowns are the visible components of the treatment, which look, feel and function just like real teeth. They are attached to the abutments.
Comparing Dental Implants Vs. Dentures
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Titanium vs. Plastic
Dental implants are made from titanium, which integrates naturally with the jawbone and is highly biocompatible. In contrast, dentures are created from various plastics and metals that may irritate the gums and don’t bond with the bone. As a result, implants provide a more comfortable and body-friendly solution. - 2
Dependability
Implants mimic natural tooth roots by fusing directly into the jawbone, creating strong, stable teeth that function almost exactly like real ones. However, dentures rest on top of the gum line, which means they can slip, create gaps, and cause clicking sounds while talking or eating. Because of this, dentures often make chewing difficult and may even contribute to nutritional deficiencies for some patients. - 3
Customization
You can replace one missing tooth or many missing teeth with dental implants, giving you true flexibility. Additionally, implants can be tailored to match the shape, size, and color of your natural teeth. Meanwhile, dentures typically replace many or all missing teeth at once, offering less customization overall. - 4
Bone Protection
Dental implants stimulate the jawbone just like natural teeth, helping keep the bone healthy and strong. On the other hand, dentures never make direct contact with the bone because they rest on top of the gums. Consequently, the jawbone can deteriorate over time, increasing the risk of long-term bone loss. - 5
Longevity
Dental implants can last a lifetime with proper care. By comparison, dentures gradually wear down, placing more stress on the gums and jawbone. Over time, dentures become loose, uncomfortable, and require replacement or frequent refitting. Implants, therefore, offer a far more durable and cost-effective long-term solution.