A number of health issues can arise as a result of missing or decayed teeth. If you’re missing teeth, you may encounter functional issues such as jawbone deterioration and dietary difficulties, or you may experience psychological distresses such as low self-esteem and self-consciousness. Having a healthy, full set of teeth can significantly enhance your overall health and quality of life. Fortunately, modern dental technology has developed dental implants, a highly-effective, long-lasting solution to missing teeth. If you’re considering dental implants, one of the most important decisions you’ll need to make is whether to go with acrylic or porcelain implants. So, which option is best for you? In this guide, we break down the differences between the two to help you make an informed decision.
Dental Implants: What They Are and How They Work
Unlike dentures, dental implants are a permanent solution to missing teeth. Depending on your situation, you may need dental implants to replace a full set of missing teeth or just a few missing or damaged teeth. There are two types of dental implants to consider, each with its own implantation method.
Traditional Implants
With traditional dental implants, titanium rods are cemented into the jawbone where your tooth roots would have been. If your roots are damaged and unable to support dentures or bridges, implants are a suitable solution for you. Keep in mind that if you have significant jawbone loss, bone grafting will be necessary prior to your traditional implant treatment, as bone is needed to support the implants. For a deeper dive into getting traditional implants at Kew Dentistry, visit this page.
All On 4 Implants
All On 4 implants can easily and effectively replace a full set of teeth. Two implants are inserted into the upper arch and two are inserted into the lower arch, and these implants support new rows of teeth. The back implants are tilted at a particular angle to adequately support the teeth and to make up for any bone density issues that may be present. In most cases, this design eliminates the need for bone grafting prior to treatment. The All On 4 procedure uses keyhole surgery instead, which requires far less healing time. We offer All On 4 treatment at Kew Dentistry. Learn more about the treatment here.
For a closer look at what the procedures for traditional or All on 4 implants entail, visit our dedicated blog here.
What Are The Advantages Of Dental Implants?
If you’ve previously opted for dentures, you’ll know that they can be quite bothersome. Dentures have long been a solution to missing teeth, however, they are not the most comfortable option on the market and often cause problems for patients. Firstly, as they are removable, dentures are more prone to being lost, broken, or damaged. Denture-wearers often complain that the fittings are uncomfortable, frequently slip, or become loose in the mouth. It’s also common for patients to restrict their diet as dentures cannot properly support the biting and chewing of all foods.
Dental implants essentially eliminate these problems. The implants are permanent, so you won’t need to worry about misplacing them! They also won’t lose shape over time and are more difficult to damage. Many patients report that their self-esteem increases with dental implants because they resemble, function, and feel like real teeth. They also tolerate a stronger bite, so you can safely return to a normal diet once they have been put in.
Acrylic Dental Implants
Acrylic is the more traditional of the two options – the first dental implants were made from acrylic. Acrylic implants are connected and supported by a titanium bar. These implants offer a softer bite than other materials, which means they have a more natural feel inside the mouth. They are also the least expensive option and are relatively easy to fix if needed.
However, acrylic implants will wear down more quickly than porcelain implants as they are a softer material. Acrylic implants have been known to noticeably wear down after the five-year mark, and in many cases, they will need to be replaced at this point. If you clench or grind your teeth, this will cause them to wear down faster. So, while they’re the less expensive option upfront, repeated maintenance and replacements may lead to more costs down the line.
Porcelain Dental Implants
Porcelain dental implants are permanent implants but are designed in more of a crown and bridge style. This design, coupled with the fact that they are more durable, means they tend to last longer than acrylic implants. Porcelain implants are usually more expensive than acrylics, but as they last longer and generally require fewer fixes during their lifespan, you’re likely to save money in the long run. These implants won’t wear down as quickly as acrylic implants, but if they do become damaged they are more difficult to repair.
Porcelain implants also provide the best aesthetic look of the two options. The material has a translucent quality, which means it reacts to light much like normal teeth. They can also be quite easily customised depending on your preferred shape and style, so they will deliver the most natural look.
Acrylic vs Porcelain Implants: Which Is Best?
There’s no absolute answer to which implants will work best for you. You and your dentist will need to consider a number of different factors before you make your decision. There are a few key elements that will come into play here.
- What are your goals? If your number one priority is that the teeth look as natural as possible, porcelain implants are probably your best bet. If you’re more concerned with teeth that have a softer feel inside the mouth and would like the peace of mind that they can be easily repaired if needed, you may need to opt for acrylic implants.
- Do you grind your teeth? If you’re prone to grinding or clenching your teeth, acrylic teeth won’t be ideal as they will wear down too quickly.
- Is mixing materials an option? Your dentist may suggest that you mix materials to achieve the best result. This may mean you have acrylic implants on your top arch and porcelain on your lower arch or vice versa.
- What’s your budget? Your budget will be a key factor in your decision. Remember, acrylic implants are cheaper upfront but may incur additional maintenance costs in their lifetime. Porcelain implants are pricier but require fewer replacements.
- Consider your age. If you’re a younger patient, you might prefer to opt for porcelain implants as they will last longer than acrylics.
Let’s Discuss Your Options
Not sure whether acrylic or porcelain implants will be best for you? The team at Kew Dentistry is here to help. From tailoring your treatment plan to checking in with you post-procedure, we’re with you every step of the way. In your initial consultation with us, we will discuss whether dental implants are the right option for you and which material will suit your needs best. To book an appointment, visit our page here.