A missing tooth can affect everything in your life, from how you eat to your self esteem. Thankfully, modern dentistry offers solutions, most commonly dentures or dental implants. But while both restore your smile, they’re not interchangeable.
The major difference is that dentures are removable prosthetics that rest on the gums, while implants are permanent posts with replica teeth embedded into the jawbone for a long-lasting natural solution.
Dentures are often more affordable upfront and are a good option if you prefer a non-surgical route or have experienced significant bone loss. Implants, on the other hand, mimic natural teeth in look and function, offering better stability, no risk of slipping, and minimal maintenance once healed.
Understanding Your Options
What Are Dentures?
Dentures are removable prosthetic devices designed to replace missing teeth. They consist of artificial teeth attached to a gum-coloured base that sits on top of your gums. Full dentures replace an entire arch of teeth, while partial dentures fill in gaps when you still have some natural teeth remaining. Modern dentures have come a long way from the uncomfortable, ill-fitting versions of the past.
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are titanium posts that are surgically placed into your jawbone to replace tooth roots. Once the implant integrates with your bone, a crown is attached to create a complete artificial tooth. Implants can replace single teeth, support bridges for multiple missing teeth, or even anchor full dentures for improved stability. The implant process involves your jawbone growing around the titanium post, creating a strong foundation that mimics your natural tooth root.
Cost Comparison: Initial Investment vs Long-Term Value
Dentures Cost
Dentures typically require a lower upfront investment compared to implants. The cost varies depending on whether you need partial or full dentures and the materials used. Many dental clinics also accept the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) and work with patients to make dentures affordable.
However, dentures do require ongoing costs for:
- Regular adjustments and realignments.
- Denture adhesives and cleaning products.
- Periodic replacements (typically every 5-10 years)
- Repairs for damage or wear.
Dental Implants Cost
Dental implants require a higher initial investment, but they often provide long-term value. The cost includes the surgical procedure, the implant post, and the final crown or prosthetic.
While more expensive upfront, implants can be more cost-effective over time because they:
- Last typically 10-20 years with proper care.
- Require minimal ongoing maintenance costs.
- Don’t need regular replacements like dentures.
Comfort & Functionality
Dentures Comfort
Well-fitting dentures can be comfortable for daily wear, especially when custom-made by a specialist. However, some people may experience:
- An adjustment period while learning to eat and speak with dentures.
- Occasional slipping or movement during eating or speaking.
- The need for denture adhesives for better security.
- Potential sore spots that require adjustments.
A tip for more comfortable dentures is finding proper fit and having regular maintenance.
Dental Implant Comfort
Once fully healed, dental implants feel and function like natural teeth. Benefits include:
- No movement or slipping while eating or speaking.
- No need for adhesives or special cleaning routines.
- Natural biting and chewing force.
- No impact on taste or speech.
The surgical placement does involve a healing period, but most patients find the long-term comfort worth the initial recovery time.
Appearance & Natural Look
Dentures Appearance
Modern dentures can look very natural when properly fitted and crafted. The artificial teeth are designed to match your facial structure and remaining natural teeth. However:
- The base may sometimes be visible when smiling or speaking.
- Facial support may change over time as your jawbone naturally shrinks.
- Dentures may occasionally shift, affecting your smile.
Dental Implants Appearance
Dental implants typically provide the most natural-looking results because:
- Individual crowns are custom-made to match your existing teeth.
- No visible base or artificial gum line.
- Implants preserve facial structure by maintaining jawbone density.
- No risk of movement affecting your appearance.
Daily Maintenance Requirements
Caring for Dentures
Dentures require specific daily care:
- Remove and clean them daily with special denture cleaners.
- Soak overnight in a cleaning solution.
- Clean your gums and any remaining natural teeth.
- Handle carefully to avoid dropping and breaking.
- Visit your denturist regularly for adjustments.
Caring for Dental Implants
Implant maintenance is similar to caring for natural teeth:
- Brush and floss daily using regular oral hygiene products.
- Regular dental checkups and professional cleanings.
- No special storage or soaking required.
- No dietary restrictions once fully healed.
How to Know if You’re a Good Candidate?
It’s important to speak with your oral care provider to explore your options and choose the solution that best fits your needs. Here are a few signs that can help determine whether dentures or dental implants might be right for you:
Dentures might be the right choice if you:
- Have experienced significant bone loss, making implants more difficult.
- Prefer a non-surgical or less invasive solution.
- Are looking for a more affordable option upfront.
- Have medical conditions that make surgery risky or inadvisable.
- Need to replace multiple or all teeth quickly and affordably.
- Are older and looking for a simpler solution without the longer healing time implants require.
Dental implants might be the right choice if you:
- Have good jawbone density to support the implant post.
- Are in good overall health and able to undergo minor surgery.
- Don’t smoke (or are willing to quit to support healing).
- Want a long-term, natural-feeling solution with fewer maintenance needs.
- Are committed to maintaining strong oral hygiene habits.
- Are younger or middle-aged and want a solution that can last decades.
Both dentures and implants can restore your smile and function; you just need the one that fits where you are now and where you want to be in the future.
Book a Consultation Today
Grand West Dental is here to help you regain a healthy, confident smile. Whether you’re considering dentures or implants, we’ll guide you through your options with care and expertise. Our team will work with you to find the solution that fits your needs. Book your consultation today at Grand West Dental.
