You’re ready to take the leap and restore your smile to full radiance. But should you choose dentures or full arch dental implants?
Dental implants and dentures are both strong options to help you get your smile back. Often, the decision comes down to your budget, lifestyle, health, and preferences—but it’s important to know the benefits and disadvantages before you decide, as well as if you’d be a better candidate for one option over another.
Discover the key differences between dentures and dental implants and find out which option might be best for you.
What Are Dentures?
Dentures are removable appliances designed to replace missing teeth and surrounding tissue. They can be full dentures (replacing an entire arch of teeth) or partial dentures (replacing a few missing teeth while fitting around your natural ones).
Affordable dentures are often a good option for older adults who don’t want to go through the more extensive dental implant process. They also can be a good alternative for someone whose jawbone has deteriorated and wouldn’t be able to support the posts required for implants.
What are the benefits of dentures over implants?
- Cost-effective: Typically less expensive upfront than implants.
- Non-invasive: No surgery is required—just molds and fittings.
- Quick solution: Can often be made and fitted within a few weeks.
- Restores function: Helps improve speech, chewing, and appearance.
What are some disadvantages of dentures?
- Less stability: May shift or slip, especially while eating or speaking.
- Maintenance: Require daily removal, intensive cleaning, and occasional refittings.
- Bone loss: Doesn’t prevent jawbone deterioration as you age.
- Shorter lifespan: May need to be relined or replaced every 5–10 years.
What Are Dental Implants?
Full arch dental implants are a permanent tooth replacement option. A small titanium post is surgically placed into the jawbone, acting as an artificial tooth root. A crown, bridge, or denture is then attached to the implant for a natural-looking and long-lasting result.
For patients in their 60s or younger, dental implants provide a great long-term dental care option that can last decades with proper care. Some people also find that dental implants are more comfortable and better for chewing.
Advantages of dental implants
- Permanent and stable: Feel and function like natural teeth.
- Preserves bone: Can help prevent bone loss in the jaw as you age.
- Low maintenance: No need to remove—just brush and floss like normal.
- Long lifespan: With proper care, implants can last 20+ years or even a lifetime.
Disadvantages of dental implants
- Higher cost: More expensive upfront than dentures.
- Requires surgery: Not suitable for all patients depending on health of bone density.
- Longer process: Each phase of the process can take several weeks before placement of final dental implants.
Dentures vs. Implants—Which Should You Choose?
The decision between dentures and implants ultimately depends on your oral health, bone density, lifestyle, budget, and long-term goals.
- Choose dentures if you’re looking for a fast, affordable solution or if you’re not a candidate for implant surgery.
- Choose implants if you want a long-term, low-maintenance option that closely mimics the look and function of natural teeth.
Schedule Your Free Tooth Replacement Consultation Today
Still not sure which option is right for you and want a second opinion? At Apex Dental, our compassionate dental experts offer personalized consultations to help you weigh your options and determine the best solution for your smile.
Whether you’re considering dentures or dental implants, our team is here to guide you every step of the way. We’ll take the time to listen to your concerns, evaluate your oral health, and create a custom plan that fits your goals and budget—all so you can get a smile you love again.
Ready to restore your smile?
Request your appointment today and take the first step towards a confident, healthy mouth that’s worth smiling about.
