Are you missing teeth and looking for a solution? The lack of teeth causes a number of disruptions to the body’s regular functions, many of which are detrimental to people’s health. Prostheses and implants are the two main alternatives to restore lost teeth. But when they both provide the same solution, what is the difference between prosthesis and implant? Let’s find out!
What is a Dental Prosthesis?
A dental prosthesis is an apparatus used to replace lost teeth and restore speech, eating, and aesthetics. Dentures, bridges, and crowns are among dental prostheses.
- Dentures: Dentures are detachable devices that are held in place by the underlying bone structure and lie on the gums.
- Partial and full dentures: Partial dentures replace some missing teeth and are attached to the patient’s natural teeth.
- Bridges: Bridges are fixed prosthetics that replace missing teeth with artificial ones by using neighboring teeth as anchors.
- Crowns: These are often used after root canal therapy. Crowns are caps that are put over damaged teeth to restore their size, shape, and function.
What Are Dental Implants?
Implants are titanium posts that are surgically inserted into the mandible to replace a lost tooth’s root. They offer a sturdy framework for prosthetic teeth and are composed of a biocompatible material, usually titanium. After the implant has been attached to the jawbone, it can be used to support a crown, bridge, or denture.
What is the Difference Between Prosthesis and Dental Implants?
Here are a few key differences between prosthesis and dental implant:
-
Procedure
The procedure of getting a dental implant has many steps, like it is first surgically inserted into the mandible. Then there is an osseointegration phase and then the positioning of the abutment. However, the procedure of getting a prosthesis is not complicated and is usually done in 1 or 2 visits.
-
Attachment
The implant is placed into the jawbone while prostheses are artificial replacement of missing teeth that are nor permanently attached to your jawbone.
-
Support
The surrounding teeth or soft tissues support the prosthesis, while the jawbone supports dental implants.
-
Cost
Dental implants are generally more expensive. For instance, a single tooth implant may cost $3,000-$6,000. Meanwhile, the cost of dental prosthesis is much less than implants.
-
Durability
You may need to get your prostheses replaced more frequently, while dental implants are made to last for many years, often a lifetime.
-
Appearance
The prostheses may not look as natural as dental implants. Implants resemble your natural teeth a lot.
Wrapping Up!
What is the difference between a prosthesis and an implant? The key difference between prostheses and implants is that implants are permanently attached to your jawbone, while prostheses aren’t. If you wish to learn more about both the treatment, visit us at Houston Dental Implant and Cosmetic Center. Book your appointment by calling (713) 664-1661.