Tooth loss can affect more than just your smile – it can make eating, speaking, and even socialising difficult. The good news is that modern dentistry offers reliable solutions, with dental implants and dentures being two of the most popular choices.
Each option has its advantages, and the right choice depends on factors such as lifestyle, budget, and oral health. At Dental Spot, our experienced team provides both treatments in our Croydon clinic, helping you find the best solution to restore your confidence and everyday comfort.
What Are Dental Implants?
A dental implant is a small titanium post that is surgically placed into the jawbone to act as an artificial tooth root. Once healed, a custom-made crown is attached to the implant, creating a strong, natural-looking replacement that functions just like a real tooth.
The process usually takes a few months, as time is needed for the implant to fuse securely with the bone – a stage known as osseointegration. While this means treatment isn’t immediate, the results are long-lasting, with implants often lasting 15 years or more with good care.
Ideal candidates for implants are those with healthy gums and good bone density, who don’t smoke and are in overall good health. If you’re considering implants, our Croydon dental team can assess your suitability and talk you through the treatment in detail.
What are Dentures?
Dentures are removable appliances designed to replace missing teeth. They can be made as full dentures, which replace an entire arch of teeth, or partial dentures, which fill gaps between natural teeth. At Dental Spot, our in-house lab creates dentures using high-quality, durable materials for a natural appearance and comfortable fit.
The fitting process typically involves impressions of your mouth, followed by adjustments to ensure your dentures fit securely and comfortably. While they don’t offer the same permanence as implants, dentures are a more affordable solution and can be an excellent choice for patients who have lost several teeth or who may not have enough bone density for implants.
Thanks to our laboratory, we also provide denture repairs and relines, making them a convenient option for many patients.
Dental Implants vs Dentures: Key Differences
Both dental implants and dentures can restore function and appearance, but they work in very different ways. Understanding the key differences can help you decide which option best suits your needs, lifestyle, and budget.
| Implants | Dentures | |
|---|---|---|
| Comfort & Fit | Feel & function like natural teeth | Can feel bulky and may shift when eating or speaking |
| Durability & Longevity | Can last more than 15 years with proper care | Typically needs replacing every 5–10 years |
| Aesthetic Appeal | Blends seamlessly with natural teeth | Natural-looking, but not as lifelike as implants |
| Cost Comparison | Higher upfront cost, lower long-term upkeep | More affordable, but may need relines and replacements |
| Oral Health Considerations | Help preserve jawbone and prevent bone loss | Do not stop bone shrinkage over time |
| Maintenance & Hygiene | Brushed and flossed like natural teeth | Require daily soaking and extra cleaning |
Which Is Right for You?
Choosing between dental implants and dentures depends on a variety of factors, including bone density, age, overall health, lifestyle, budget, and your long-term goals. Implants may be the better choice if you’re looking for a permanent, natural-feeling solution and have healthy bone to support them. On the other hand, dentures can be more suitable if you’re replacing multiple teeth at once, want a quicker solution, or prefer a more cost-effective option.
There’s no universal answer — the right treatment is the one that fits your needs and restores your confidence. That’s why the best first step is to sit down with our caring team for a personalised consultation. We’ll guide you through your options, explain the pros and cons, and help you make a decision you feel comfortable with.
If you’re ready to explore your options for replacing missing teeth, Dental Spot is here to help.
Book your consultation today, or give us a call and take the first step towards a stronger, healthier, and more confident smile.
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