dental procedures · implants · oral concerns ·Sep 04, 2025

Implants vs. Dentures: Which one do you choose?

Tooth loss can be a life-changing experience, affecting not only your ability to eat and speak but also your confidence and overall health. Perhaps you were born without a tooth or have had to have teeth removed due to injury, infection, or decay. Fortunately, modern dentistry offers two primary solutions for missing teeth: dental implants and dentures. But how do you decide which one is right for you?

Let’s break down the pros and cons of each to help you make an informed choice.

What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are permanent tooth replacements that are surgically placed into the jawbone. They act as artificial tooth roots and support crowns, bridges, or dentures.

✅ Pros:
• Long-lasting: With proper care, implants can last a lifetime.
• Natural look and feel: They closely mimic the appearance and function of natural teeth, giving you confidence and the ability to chew properly.
• Bone preservation: Implants stimulate the jawbone, preventing bone loss.
• No slipping: Unlike dentures, implants stay firmly in place with no slipping or clicking when you talk, eat, or laugh.

❌ Cons:
• Cost: Implants are often more expensive upfront.
• Surgery required: Placement involves a surgical procedure and healing time.
• Not for everyone: Requires sufficient bone density and good overall health

What Are Dentures?
Dentures are removable appliances that replace missing teeth and surrounding tissues. They come in full or partial sets depending on the extent of tooth loss.

✅ Pros:
• Affordable: Generally less expensive than implants, but you may need to replace multiple times throughout life as the bone under the denture changes.
• Non-invasive: No surgery required.
• Quick solution: Can be made and fitted relatively quickly.

❌ Cons:
• Less stable: May slip or move while eating or speaking.
• Maintenance: Requires daily cleaning and occasional adjustments.
• Bone loss: Doesn’t prevent jawbone deterioration over time.

Which One Should You Choose?
The decision between implants and dentures depends on several factors:
• Budget: Implants are a long-term investment, while dentures are more budget-friendly.
• Health: Implants require good bone health and healing capacity.
• Lifestyle: If you want a permanent solution, implants may be ideal. If you prefer a non-surgical option dentures could be better.
• Aesthetics and comfort: Implants offer a more natural look and feel, while dentures may require an adjustment period, and continuous adjustment as the bone changes under the denture.

Both implants and dentures have their place in modern dentistry. The best choice is the one that fits your needs, health, and lifestyle. Consulting with your dental professional is key—they can assess your oral health and guide you toward the most suitable option. Restoring your smile is always a step toward better health and confidence.

Dentures | MouthHealthy - Oral Health Information from the ADA