Dental Implants

When it comes to replacing missing teeth, many patients ask about the pros and cons of dentures vs implants. At our Sparks dental office, we often help patients compare these two popular tooth replacement options to find the right fit for their lifestyle, oral health, and budget. This guide breaks down the advantages and limitations of each solution, so you can make an informed choice based on comfort, durability, maintenance, and cost. If you’re exploring missing teeth solutions in Sparks, keep reading to learn which path might be right for you.

What Are Dentures? 

Dentures are removable dental appliances used to replace multiple or all missing teeth. They are a non-surgical and budget-friendly solution, making them ideal for patients experiencing extensive tooth loss or those who are looking for faster, more affordable care. At Pyramid Family Dental, we offer both full and partial dentures in Sparks to suit a variety of needs.

Full Dentures – Replacing All Teeth

Full dentures are used for patients who are missing all of their teeth in the upper or lower arch. These complete sets rest on the gums and are designed for comfort, function, and aesthetics.

• Fit is customized for each arch
• Helps restore facial structure
• Improves ability to chew and speak

If you’re considering complete dentures in Sparks, this option provides a practical and cost-effective way to restore your smile. 

Partial Dentures – For Patients Missing a Few Teeth

Partial dentures are designed for patients who still have some natural teeth remaining. They typically consist of a metal or acrylic framework that anchors to your remaining teeth, filling in the gaps.

• Ideal when some natural teeth are still healthy
• May be made from metal, flexible plastic, or acrylic
• Blend with surrounding teeth for a more natural appearance

At our office, we provide partial dentures in Sparks that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing.

Pros & Limitations of Dentures

Pros:

• More affordable than implants
• Non-invasive and accessible for most patients
• Easy to maintain with regular cleaning

Cons:

• May shift during eating or speaking
• Less natural feel than implants
• Can contribute to jawbone shrinkage over time

Do dentures feel natural? Modern designs improve aesthetics, but some patients report a bulky sensation at first. It’s also important to understand the relationship between dentures and jawbone shrinkage, as wearing removable dentures without stimulation to the jawbone can accelerate bone loss over time. Understanding the pros and cons of dentures helps set realistic expectations.

What Are Dental Implants?

Dental implants in Sparks are permanent prosthetics that are surgically anchored into the jawbone. Known for their long-term reliability and natural appearance, they’ve become a leading solution for permanent tooth replacement in Sparks.

How Dental Implants Work

Dental implants consist of:

• A titanium post inserted into the jawbone
• An abutment that connects the post to the crown
• A custom crown that mimics the natural tooth

The implant undergoes osseointegration, a healing process where the bone fuses to the post, providing unmatched stability.

From consultation to final placement, the process typically takes several months, but the result is a lasting and lifelike restoration.

Implant Options at Pyramid Family Dental

We provide a full range of dental implant options in Sparks:

• Single-tooth implants for individual tooth loss
• Implant-supported bridges for multiple missing teeth
• Implant-supported dentures for full-arch solutions

As a permanent tooth replacement in Sparks, dentures offer greater security than traditional removable ones.

Pros & Limitations of Dental Implants

Pros:

• Permanent, with proper care
• Preserves jawbone density and facial structure
• Mimics natural teeth

Cons:

• Higher upfront cost
• Requires surgical procedure and healing time

Patients often ask, are implants worth the cost? The answer depends on your goals, but the benefits of implants over dentures include a more natural look, better stability, and long-term preservation of jaw health. In fact, many patients specifically ask, do implants prevent bone loss? Yes, because they fuse directly with the jawbone, dental implants help maintain bone density and prevent the shrinkage often seen with traditional dentures.

Dentures vs Implants: Key Differences for Sparks Patients

Choosing between dentures and implants depends on your comfort needs, lifestyle, and oral health.

Stability and Functionality

• Implants: Fused to bone, no shifting or movement when chewing
• Dentures: Can shift, especially lower arch; adhesives may be needed

Appearance and Comfort

• Implants: Look and feel like natural teeth
• Dentures: Modern materials improve appearance, but they may feel bulky

Maintenance Requirements

• Implants: Brush and floss like natural teeth
• Dentures: Must be removed daily, soaked, and cleaned

Understanding the differences in maintaining dentures vs implants helps patients decide what fits their routine best.

Jawbone Health and Longevity

• Implants: Stimulate jawbone and prevent deterioration
• Dentures: Do not prevent bone loss; may accelerate shrinkage

If you’re wondering, “Do implants help bone health?” the answer is yes, they are among the most long-lasting tooth replacement options available.

Cost Comparison: Dentures vs Implants in Sparks

Cost is often a key deciding factor for patients choosing between the two.

Average Cost of Dentures in Sparks

• Full Dentures: $1,000–$3,000 per arch
• Partial Dentures: $700–$2,500

We offer affordable dentures in Sparks and accept most dental insurance plans. Flexible financing may also be available.

Average Cost of Dental Implants in Sparks

• Single Tooth: $3,000–$6,000 (includes post, abutment, crown)
• Implant Bridges or Dentures: $6,000–$25,000+

Want to know more about implant cost per tooth in Sparks? We’re happy to provide a personalized estimate during your consultation.

Long-Term Value Considerations

• Dentures may need to be replaced every 5–8 years
• Implants can last 15+ years with proper care

While implants cost more upfront, the cost-effectiveness of implants increases over time due to fewer replacements and long-term health benefits.

Who Is a Better Candidate for Each Option?

Not every solution works for every patient. Here’s how to assess what might be right for you.

Ideal Candidates for Dentures

• Older adults with multiple missing teeth
• Patients seeking a quicker, more affordable solution
• Those who are not candidates for surgery

Ideal Candidates for Dental Implants

• Healthy bone density in the jaw
• Non-smokers or those willing to quit
• Patients seeking a permanent solution

Medical Conditions and Other Factors

• Certain conditions (e.g., diabetes, osteoporosis) can affect healing
• Smoking can delay or prevent implant integration
• Medications may influence bone health and recovery time

A personalized evaluation at our Sparks office will help determine if you’re a candidate for dentures or dental implants in Sparks.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Are dentures covered by insurance in Sparks?

Most dental insurance plans cover part or all of the cost of dentures. Check with your provider or ask our team to help you verify coverage.

Can you get dental implants if you’ve had dentures?

Yes! Many patients transition from dentures to implants. Your jawbone health will be assessed to determine implant suitability.

What is the most comfortable tooth replacement option?

Many patients find implants to be the most comfortable because they feel and function like real teeth. However, well-fitted dentures can also be quite comfortable.

Are there payment plans for dental implants at Pyramid Family Dental?

Yes, we offer third-party financing and flexible payment options to make dental implants in Sparks more accessible.

Choosing the Right Tooth Replacement in Sparks

Both dentures and implants offer effective solutions for missing teeth, but the right choice depends on your oral health, goals, and lifestyle. Dentures provide a quick, affordable fix, while implants offer permanent, long-term benefits.

Still unsure which solution is right for you? Book a consultation at our Sparks office to explore whether dentures or implants are the best fit for your smile and lifestyle. 

There are a number of things that can cause our teeth to fall out, including accidents, age, decay, and disease. In fact, tooth loss is incredibly common among American adults and affects more than 178 million of us, according to the American College of Prosthodontists. But if you’re one of the millions of Americans missing a tooth or even several teeth, your dentist in Sparks wants you to know that you don’t need to live without a full smile. There are tooth replacement options such as dental implants and dentures available that can help. 

What are Dentures?

Dentures are a tooth replacement treatment option that has been around for quite some time but has been improved upon as technology advanced. Dentures can either replace all of your natural teeth or even only a series of missing teeth (called a partial denture). They are removable, non-permanent prosthetics that are custom-created to fit in your mouth and appear like natural teeth. 

Pros of Dentures

There are several benefits of dentures, including: 

• More affordable than dental implants
• Can be good for those who just had their teeth removed and who want time for their mouth to heal before dental implant surgery
• There’s no surgery involved
• Dentures or partial dentures can be modified if more teeth are lost later in life

Cons of Dentures

As with anything, your dentist in Sparks also wants you to be aware that dentures can also come with a few cons such as: 

• They may not look as natural as dental implants 
• They have to be removed, cleaned, and stored properly every night
• They require adhesive to stay in place which can get costly over time
• They can slip while eating and talking which can be uncomfortable
• They may not allow you to eat all the foods you want to eat such as corn, apples, or things with tiny seeds
• They can increase the likelihood of gum disease if they aren’t cleaned properly or if food gets trapped 
• They’re very delicate and can break easily and require a brand new prosthetic
• Partials can weaken the teeth supporting it leading to additional problems

What are Dental Implants?

Like dentures, dental implants can also replace either one missing tooth or an entire mouth of missing teeth. But unlike dentures, dental implants are permanent, and instead of sitting on top of the jaw bone, dental implants are secured into the jaw bone. Dental implant treatment starts with a titanium post being placed into the jaw bone where it will act as your tooth root. As it heals, your bone will actually grow around the post, securely locking it into place. Afterward, an abutment is added to the post, and a brand new crown custom-created by your dentist in Sparks is placed on top. Now, if you’re missing more than one tooth, a few posts may be implanted into your bone then a full set of brand new teeth will be permanently secured to them, giving you a brand new look. 

Pros of Dental Implants

Dental implants can be the best and longest lasting tooth replacement for you and can also provide some of the following benefits.  

• Dental implants tend to be more comfortable than dentures
• You can eat what you want with dental implants
• They don’t affect speech
• They don’t require daily removal and reinsertion 
• You can care for them just like your natural teeth
• Dental implants can last for decades with proper care
• They can reduce the risk of additional oral health problems

Cons of Dental Implants

Even though dental implants may appear to be all positive, there are a few cons as well. 

• Dental implants are more expensive than dentures
• They do require surgery
• Not everyone is a candidate for implants 

If you’re tired of living your life with missing teeth, call your dentist in Sparks and schedule a consultation. Together, you can find the best way to replace your teeth and begin treatment so you can start smiling fully again.

Even though our teeth are made up of one of the toughest materials in our bodies, the truth is, sometimes our natural teeth won’t last forever. Whether it’s due to trauma, gum disease, or decay, it’s not uncommon to have a tooth fall out or to have one removed. If this happens, there are many tooth replacement options available, but a favorite choice of your Sparks dentist is a dental implant. 

What is a Dental Implant

A dental implant, or even multiple implants, is a superior way to restore your smile and give you a permanent replacement for your tooth. They are usually preferred over a dental bridge or dentures because the implant itself essentially replaces the entire tooth’s structure, not simply the crown. This helps restore your mouth to full function, and oftentimes, you won’t even be able to tell you were ever missing a tooth. In short, dental implants create a natural feel that can last a lifetime. 

Benefits of a Dental Implant

We already know that a dental implant can give us back full functionality of our smiles, but there are many other upsides to this tooth replacement option such as: 

• Improved appearance and speech. Since dental implants replace the tooth’s natural root system and the post is integrated into the bone, dental implants continue to provide stimulation to the bone. This can help reduce the look of wrinkles and lower your risk of bone loss in the jaw. And since an implant functions very much like a natural tooth, you’re able to speak clearly and do not have to deal with any annoying slippage that can often occur with dentures. 

• Easier eating. One common complaint of denture wearers is that they can’t eat what they want when they want to. Dental implants eliminate that restriction and leaves people free to enjoy the foods they love the most. There is no worry of a denture slipping or food stuck getting under one. Overall, those with dental implants can eat without worry. 

• Enhanced oral health. Another difference between a dental implant and its denture counterpart is that a dental implant is a permanent structure. This means there’s no need for overnight soaking or the extra cleaning that comes with a removable denture. You can care for a dental implant just as if it’s your natural tooth. 

What to Expect During an Implant Procedure

The first step in determining whether a dental implant is right for you is to schedule a consultation with your dentist in Sparks. This visit will allow your dental team to exam your specific situation and determine if an implant is the best tooth-replacement option. If it is, your team will review the treatment plan and schedule the procedure. The procedure itself is pretty easy and consists of a few parts: 

• Place the post. Your dentist and your team will insert a titanium post into your jaw bone. While it may sound scary, the procedure itself is mild to moderately painful. 

• Healing time. After the post is implanted, you will be fitted with a temporary crown while your bone integrates into the post, building you a super-strong foundation.

• Add the abutment. Once the post is sturdy and healing time is complete, your dentist will custom make you a permanent crown that will be affixed to the post. 

Overall, getting a dental implant is an easy and straightforward treatment that can bring your smile back to life. 

If you’re missing a tooth or are at risk for losing teeth, give our Sparks dental office a call to schedule an appointment today. We’ll be happy to identify the best treatment option for you and your individual situation.