If you’re exploring denture options, you’ve likely come across two popular choices: digital dentures and traditional dentures.
Both can help restore your smile and function, but they differ in how they’re made and the experience they offer.
Understanding the benefits and potential drawbacks of each will help you decide which option best suits your needs.
What Are Traditional Dentures?
Traditional dentures have been a reliable solution for replacing missing teeth for many years. These dentures are created using physical impressions of your mouth, which are then sent to a lab where a technician handcrafts the final product.
The process of making traditional dentures involves multiple appointments, starting with the impression and followed by fittings to ensure the dentures are customised for comfort and function.
Pros of Traditional Dentures:
- Trusted and reliable: Traditional dentures have been used for decades, providing a proven way to restore your smile.
- Customisable: Since they’re handmade, traditional dentures allow for hands-on adjustments, giving you a personalised fit.
- Affordable: Traditional dentures are often more budget-friendly, especially if you don’t need advanced technology or quick turnaround times.
Cons of Traditional Dentures:
- Longer process: The process can take several weeks or months, requiring multiple appointments.
- Less precision: Manual craftsmanship may not be as precise as digital scanning and 3D printing, which can lead to more adjustments.
- More adjustments: It’s common to need several fittings to get the perfect fit.
What Are Digital Dentures?
Digital dentures are a more recent development in denture technology. Instead of using physical impressions, a digital scan of your mouth is taken.
This scan is used to design your dentures with computer-aided design (CAD) software.
Once the digital model is ready, the dentures are created using 3D printing or milling technology.
Pros of Digital Dentures:
- Highly accurate: Digital dentures offer a more precise fit from the start, which can result in greater comfort and fewer adjustments.
- Faster turnaround: The digital process is quicker, cutting down on wait times. Once your scan is complete, the dentures are made within days.
- Easy to replicate: The digital file of your dentures is saved, so replacements can be made without the need for another impression.
- Fewer fittings: Thanks to the precision of digital scanning, fewer adjustments are usually needed.
Cons of Digital Dentures:
- Higher cost: The technology involved can make digital dentures more expensive than traditional options.
- Not always available: Not every clinic offers digital dentures, so you may need to seek out a specialist.
- Less hands-on: Some patients prefer the traditional, hands-on craftsmanship of traditional dentures, where adjustments can be made manually.
Key Differences Between Digital and Traditional Dentures
While both options aim to restore your smile and function, the key differences lie in how they’re made:
Technology: Traditional dentures rely on physical impressions and manual craftsmanship, while digital dentures use computer scanning and 3D printing.
Time: Digital dentures are usually faster to produce due to the use of CAD software and digital impressions, while traditional dentures require more time for fittings and adjustments.
Precision: Digital dentures offer a higher degree of accuracy, often resulting in a better fit with fewer adjustments.
Let South Coast Denture Clinic Help You Choose the Right Dentures
Whether you’re leaning towards the precision and speed of digital dentures or the hands-on customisation of traditional dentures, finding the right fit is essential.
At South Coast Denture Clinic, we offer both options and will work closely with you to ensure your dentures meet your specific needs.
Our experienced team is here to guide you every step of the way, helping restore both your smile and confidence.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward your new, comfortable dentures.
