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Losing teeth can be overwhelming, but finding the right replacement doesn’t have to be.
Dental implants and dentures are two of the most common tooth replacement options, each with its own benefits. But how do you decide which one is right for you?
In this guide, we’ll break down the cost, durability, comfort, and maintenance of dental implants vs dentures, helping you make an informed choice that fits your lifestyle and budget.
💡 Let’s dive in to find out which option is best for your smile!
When replacing missing teeth, two of the most common options are dental implants and dentures—but they work in very different ways.
✔ Dental implants are permanent replacements for teeth surgically placed into the jawbone, acting like natural teeth.
✔ Dentures are prosthetics that are removable that sit on the gums and are a more affordable, non-surgical solution.
Both solutions help restore your smile, but which one is right for you? Below is a quick comparison of cost, comfort, durability, and maintenance to help you decide.
| Feature | Dental Implants | Dentures |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Higher upfront cost but lasts longer | More affordable initially, but may need replacements |
| Durability | Can survive a lifetime with proper care | Typically lasts 5-10 years before needing replacement |
| Comfort & Fit | Feels like natural teeth, stays securely in place | May slip or feel bulky, requires adjustments |
| Bone Health | Helps prevent bone loss by stimulating the jawbone | Does not stimulate bone, may lead to bone loss over time |
| Maintenance | Requires regular flossing and brushing like natural teeth | Needs daily removal and cleaning |
| Procedure & Recovery | Surgical procedure with healing time required | Non-invasive, faster solution |
Every dental solution has trade-offs, and dental implants vs dentures is no exception. Here’s a closer look at what each offers:
| Feature | Dental Implants | Dentures |
|---|---|---|
| Pros |
✅ Permanent solution that looks and feels like real teeth ✅ Helps preserve jawbone health ✅ No slipping or discomfort while eating and speaking |
✅ More affordable option ✅ Non-invasive with no surgery required ✅ Quick solution for replacing missing teeth |
| Cons |
❌ Requires surgery and healing time ❌ Higher upfront cost |
❌ May shift or feel uncomfortable over time ❌ Requires adjustments and replacements every few years ❌ Does not prevent bone loss |
Choosing between dental implants vs dentures comes down to your priorities—do you want a permanent, natural-feeling solution, or do you prefer a more affordable and non-surgical option?
💡 Next, let’s go over the key factors that will help you make the best decision.
Now that we’ve compared dental implants and dentures, let’s take a closer look at what truly matters when making your decision.
While cost, durability, and comfort are important, other factors like maintenance, recovery time, and long-term impact should also be considered.
For many, cost is the first consideration when choosing between dental implants and dentures. While dentures have a lower upfront cost, implants offer long-term value because they last longer and require fewer replacements.
However, it’s important to think beyond just the initial cost. With dentures, you may need replacements every 5-10 years, along with periodic adjustments. Implants, on the other hand, rarely need replacement, making them a better long-term investment.
Additionally, insurance coverage varies. Many plans cover dentures but only partially cover implants—so checking your options beforehand can help you plan financially.
💡 Bottom Line:
✔ If you need a lower upfront cost, dentures are a more budget-friendly option.
✔ If you want to avoid future replacements, implants may be a smarter financial decision over time.
Both implants and dentures require care, but the level of effort is different.
With dental implants, maintenance is simple—just brush and floss like normal. Since implants are fixed into the jaw, they don’t need special cleaning solutions, adhesives, or removal.
Dentures, however, require daily removal and soaking, along with regular relining to ensure a proper fit. Over time, dentures can wear down or lose their shape, which is why they need replacements every few years.
💡 Bottom Line:
✔ If you prefer hassle-free maintenance, implants are easier to care for.
✔ If you don’t mind extra cleaning routines, dentures can still be a good option.
If you’re looking for a fast solution, dentures are ready in just a few weeks. There’s no surgery involved, just impressions, fittings, and adjustments.
With dental implants, the process is longer but permanent. The implant is placed into the jawbone, and it takes around 3-6 months for the bone to heal up and integrate with the implant.
However, once healed, implants function just like natural teeth—without the need for future replacements.
💡 Bottom Line:
✔ Need a quick fix? Dentures can be ready in weeks.
✔ Want a permanent solution? Implants take time but last a lifetime.
By now, you understand the key differences between dental implants and dentures, as well as the factors that influence cost, maintenance, and recovery. But how do you know which option is best for your specific needs?
Below is a simple decision-making guide to help you make the best choice based on your budget, lifestyle, and health factors.
✔ You want a permanent, long-term solution – Implants can last a lifetime with proper care.
✔ You prefer the most natural look and feel – They function just like real teeth, with no slipping or discomfort.
✔ You don’t want to deal with daily removal and cleaning – Unlike dentures, implants stay in place and require no special maintenance.
✔ You have good jawbone density – Implants require a strong, healthy jawbone for proper support.
✔ You’re okay with a longer treatment process – The implant procedure takes months, but the results are long-lasting.
✔ You want to protect your jawbone – Since implants stimulate bone growth, they help prevent bone loss and facial sagging over time.
✔ You need a more affordable option – Dentures cost significantly less upfront than implants.
✔ You want a faster solution – Dentures can be ready within weeks, while implants take several months.
✔ You prefer a non-surgical option – Getting dentures is quick, painless, and non-invasive.
✔ You have bone loss or weak jawbone structure – If your jawbone isn’t strong enough for implants, dentures are a great alternative.
✔ You don’t mind regular adjustments and replacements – Dentures need to be relined, adjusted, and replaced over time.
✔ You don’t mind extra maintenance – Dentures must be removed, cleaned daily, and stored properly.
Age – While both options work for all ages, older adults with weaker jawbones may find dentures to be the better option.
Oral Health – If you have gum disease or other dental conditions, you may need treatment before getting implants or dentures.
Diet & Lifestyle – If you eat hard, chewy, or crunchy foods often, implants offer better stability than dentures.
Comfort Level with Surgery – If you’re uncomfortable with surgical procedures, dentures may be the less stressful option.
Still have questions? Here are some of the most common concerns people have when deciding between dental implants and dentures.
✔ It depends on overall health, jawbone strength, and lifestyle.
Age itself isn’t a deciding factor—many older adults successfully get dental implants if they have enough healthy jawbone to support them. However, if bone loss has already occurred or if surgery is a concern, dentures may be a more suitable option.
💡 Best for older adults?
If you want a permanent solution and are in good overall health, implants are a great choice.
If you prefer a non-surgical option and need a quicker fix, dentures might be better.
✔ It depends on the insurance plan.
Most dental insurance covers dentures but may only partially cover implants, as they are often considered an elective procedure rather than a necessity. However, some policies cover parts of the implant process, such as extractions or crowns.
💡 What to do?
Have a chat with your insurance provider to understand what parts of the procedure may be covered under your plan. Ask your dental office about financing plans if implants are not fully covered.
✔ Yes, many people transition from dentures to implants later in life.
If you’ve been wearing dentures but decide you want a more permanent, stable solution, implants are still an option. However, If you’ve been using dentures for a long time, your jawbone may have weakened over time. In some cases, a bone graft might be needed to strengthen the area before implants can be placed.
💡 What to consider?
The longer you wear dentures, the more likely bone loss will affect implant eligibility. Scheduling a dental consultation can help determine whether a bone graft is necessary before transitioning to implants.
✔ Implants last longer, but dentures are easier to replace.
Dentures typically last 5-10 years before requiring replacement due to wear, staining, or changes in fit.
Dental implants can go for a lifetime with good care, though the crown—the visible part of the tooth—may require replacement every 10 to 15 years due to wear.
💡 Longevity tip?
Dentures require more frequent replacements, while implants offer a long-term investment.
At Dimples Family Dentistry, we provide expert tooth replacement solutions for patients in Norwalk, IA, and surrounding areas.
Whether you need dental implants or dentures, we ensure a comfortable, stress-free experience with:
✔ Advanced, pain-free treatments for natural-looking, lasting results.
✔ Flexible financing & insurance options to fit your budget.
✔ Trusted local care focused on your comfort and long-term oral health.
💡 Ready for a healthier, more confident smile? Schedule your consultation today!
Dr. Roos was raised in West Des Moines, IA. He attended Valley High School and went to college at Luther College in Decorah, IA. He graduated from the University of Iowa College of Dentistry in 2004. He has attended numerous post-graduate courses in endodontics and orthodontics. He is a member of the American Dental Association, the Iowa Dental Association, and the American Orthodontic Society.
Dr. Roos is married to his wife Sara and they have 6 children. He enjoys spending time with his wife and children, gardening, landscaping, and farming with his cousin on their family farms in Avoca, IA.
I've been seeing Dr. Ethan Roos at Dimples Dentistry for over 5 years and have always been happy with the care I've received here. The staff has always been very welcoming, as if you are part of the family. I highly recommend!!
Called Dimples and wish I called them first. Their receptionist was SO kind and SO helpful. Even offered to call to have my records sent to them in hopes to save me some money from doing x rays again. She was nothing but sweet! Got me scheduled within 2 days. Went above and beyond and was kind when I arrived.
Dr. Roos and his staff are incredibly professional, kind, and knowledgeable. Their pricing is also extremely reasonable, even for those without insurance. We had an excellent experience with a dental emergency exam; they also had availability to fit us in for a routine exam and cleaning after the emergency exam.