Dental Implants vs Dentures: Which Is Right for You?
Missing one tooth, several teeth or a whole set? Choosing how to replace them can feel overwhelming. Dental implants and dentures can both restore your smile, but they work in different ways.
Explore the differences in stability, maintenance, treatment and cost to help you prepare for a conversation with your dentist.
What is the difference between dental implants and dentures?
Both treatments replace missing teeth, but the main difference is how the replacement teeth are supported.
Dental implants are placed in the jawbone to support a replacement tooth, bridge or, in some cases, a denture. Conventional dentures are removable appliances that sit over your gums and may replace some or all of your teeth.
The right option depends on your oral health, the number of teeth you need to replace, your preferences and your budget.
Dental implants vs dentures at a glance
Each option has potential benefits and considerations.
Dental implants
Implants support a crown, bridge or certain types of dentures.
- Can support fixed replacement teeth
- Designed to remain in place once restored
- Requires surgery and healing time
- Needs careful daily cleaning and professional maintenance
- Usually has a higher initial cost than conventional dentures
Dentures
Custom-made removable teeth that rest over the gums.
- Can replace several teeth or a complete set
- Often lower initial cost than implant treatment
- Generally avoids implant surgery
- Must be removed for regular cleaning
- May need adjustments or replacement as your mouth changes
How do implants and dentures compare?
Use this guide as a starting point. Individual experiences vary.
| Consideration | Dental implants | Conventional dentures |
|---|---|---|
| Support | Anchored in the jawbone to support replacement teeth. | Rest over the gums; partial dentures may also use remaining teeth. |
| Removable? | Implant crowns and bridges are generally fixed. Some implant-supported dentures are removable. | Designed to be removed for cleaning. |
| Treatment | Requires surgery and healing; treatment may take several months. | Usually involves impressions or scans, fitting and possible adjustments. |
| Initial cost | Generally higher due to surgery and implant components. | Often lower initially, depending on type and materials. |
| Daily care | Careful cleaning around the restoration and gums. | Remove and clean separately; continue caring for gums and remaining teeth. |
| Long-term upkeep | Needs reviews; components may require repair or replacement. | May need adjustment, relining or replacement. |
| Suitability | Depends on oral health, bone, medical factors and assessment. | Fit and design need professional assessment too. |
This is a general comparison, not a guarantee of outcomes. Your dentist can explain the benefits, risks and costs relevant to you.
When might dental implants be worth considering?
You may wish to explore implants if you want to replace one or more missing teeth with a fixed restoration, or want to learn whether implant-supported options could suit you.
- You prefer a replacement that is not routinely removed
- You want to explore options for one tooth, several teeth or a full arch
- You are prepared for surgery and healing time
- You can commit to careful cleaning and regular reviews
Implants are not suitable for everyone. Gum health, bone availability, smoking and some medical conditions may affect suitability or treatment timing.
Explore Implant Costs & Finance ↗When might dentures be the right option?
Dentures remain a practical choice for many people. Depending on your needs, they can replace a few missing teeth or a complete upper or lower set.
- You want to replace several teeth or a complete set
- You prefer a removable option
- You want to explore a treatment with a lower initial cost
- You would prefer to avoid implant surgery
- You want to discuss a partial or full denture
Dentures can take time to get used to, and their fit may change as your mouth changes. Follow-up appointments can help address discomfort, looseness and the need for adjustments.
Discuss Denture Options ↗What about the cost of implants vs dentures?
Conventional dentures often cost less initially than implants. Implant treatment generally involves more stages, including surgery and the replacement tooth or teeth.
Your overall costs depend on the treatment plan and whether future maintenance, adjustments, repairs or replacement are needed. Ask for a clear breakdown of what treatment includes.
Finance may be available to eligible applicants, with options of up to 10 years depending on the finance product and approval.
Explore possible monthly repayments
Use the finance calculator to explore illustrative repayments for dental implant treatment.
Finance is subject to eligibility, affordability checks, approval and provider terms. Longer terms can increase the total amount payable. Calculator results do not guarantee acceptance.
How do you choose the right option?
A dental assessment and a conversation about your priorities can help.
Talk about your needs
Explain how many teeth you need to replace and what matters most to you.
Understand your options
Ask about benefits, limitations, risks and the maintenance each treatment involves.
Review costs and timing
Understand the proposed treatment, expected timeline, full cost and payment options.
Dental implants vs dentures FAQs
Are dental implants better than dentures?
Neither option is best for everyone. Implants can support fixed replacement teeth, while conventional dentures are removable and often have a lower initial cost. Suitability depends on your oral health, preferences and budget.
Are dentures cheaper than dental implants?
Conventional dentures generally cost less initially. Long-term costs depend on treatment and any future maintenance, adjustments, repairs or replacements.
Do dental implants feel more secure?
Implants are anchored in the jawbone and can support fixed replacement teeth. Conventional dentures rest over the gums and may move in some circumstances. Comfort and stability vary between individuals.
Can implants replace a full set of teeth?
In suitable cases, implants can support full-arch replacement teeth. Options may include a fixed bridge or a removable implant-supported denture. An assessment is needed to establish suitability.
Can I switch from dentures to implants later?
Some denture wearers may be suitable for implant treatment later. Bone availability, oral health, medical history and other clinical factors need to be assessed.
How do I clean dental implants?
Implants need careful daily cleaning around the replacement teeth and gums, plus regular professional reviews. Your dental team can demonstrate appropriate cleaning methods.
Can I spread the cost of dental implants?
Finance may be available to eligible applicants. Terms and approval vary. You can use Dental Perfection's finance calculator to explore possible repayments.
How do I know which treatment is right for me?
A dental assessment can help you understand the options that may be suitable and compare their benefits, limitations, risks, costs and maintenance requirements.
Not sure whether implants or dentures are right for you?
You do not need to make the decision alone. Get in touch with Dental Perfection to discuss your tooth replacement options, ask questions and understand what the next step could look like. There is no pressure or obligation to proceed.
Dental Perfection also has a practice in Kettering. Ask our team about the most suitable location for you.