Can You Go from Dentures to Implants? Here’s How It Works

If you’ve been wearing dentures for years and wondering whether you can upgrade to something more secure and natural-looking, you’re not alone. Many patients ask, “Can I really switch from dentures to dental implants?” Short answer: Yes, you can. But like most things in life, there’s a process, and a few things to know before you make the leap. Let’s walk through it.

From Denture to Dental Implant: What's the Difference?

Let’s start with the basics. A denture is a removable set of false teeth designed to sit on your gums. It replaces multiple missing teeth and gives the appearance of a full smile, but it doesn’t anchor into your jawbone. That means it can shift, slip, or even make chewing certain foods a chore.

Dental implants, on the other hand, are tiny titanium posts placed directly into the jaw where your tooth root used to be. They bond with the bone over time, creating a stable foundation for implant-supported crowns, bridges, or even full arches. These feel, function, and look a whole lot more like natural teeth, no slipping, no clicking, and way less fuss.

How Does the Implant-Supported Denture Work?

When we talk about going from dentures to implants, one common option is the implant-supported denture. These aren’t your grandma’s traditional dentures. Instead of relying solely on suction or adhesives, these clip securely onto implants that are anchored in your jaw. They’re removable, but they stay in place until you decide otherwise. Think of it as the best of both worlds, stability plus convenience.

There’s also the All-on-4 method, which places four dental implants in strategic spots to support a full row of teeth. It’s a favorite among people with multiple missing teeth who want to ditch their partial denture or full denture altogether. All-on-4® dental implants offer a permanent solution that can often be done without bone grafting, even if you’ve had some bone loss.

Who’s a Good Candidate?

Not everyone can switch from dentures to implants immediately. Your dentist or oral surgeon will need to assess your bone through X-rays or scans to check if you have enough bone to support the implants. Over time, wearing dentures can lead to jawbone shrinkage, which is where bone grafts come in.

If you need a bone graft, don’t panic. It’s a common step, especially if your jawbone has weakened from years of missing teeth. A graft involves adding bone material, either from your own body or a donor source, to stimulate bone growth so you can safely receive dental implants later. Healing from this stage usually takes three to six months before implant placement can begin.

If you’ve got good oral hygiene, are generally healthy, and don’t smoke (or are willing to quit), you might be a good candidate for this transition. Bonus points if you’ve been frustrated with how your dentures fit or function.

The Implant Process in Real Life

So, what’s the actual journey like? Your tooth replacement journey usually begins with a consultation, where your provider will take images and talk through your goals. From there, if your jawbone is ready, you’ll move forward with implant placement. This is typically done by a board-certified oral and maxillofacial surgeon who inserts the implants into your jaw.

After surgery, the healing period, called osseointegration, can last four to six months. During this time, the implants heal and fuse with your bone to support the implants permanently. It’s not the fastest process, but it’s worth the wait. Once healed, your new denture or set of implant-supported teeth is attached.

Unlike traditional dentures, which can need to be replaced every few years, dental implants are long-lasting with the right care and maintenance. Think of it as an investment in your comfort, oral health, and confidence.

What If I Wear Dentures Now?

You’re in good company, many patients who wear dentures eventually start looking into dental implants after having dentures. Maybe you’re tired of slipping and adhesives, or you’ve experienced changes in your bite. Whatever the reason, it’s never too late to switch from dentures to implants.

Even dentures replace teeth visually, they don’t help prevent bone loss. Dental implants, though, can keep your jawbone stronger by mimicking the pressure natural teeth would apply. That pressure helps preserve your facial structure and avoid that “sunken” look over time.

What to Watch Out For

Of course, there are a few things that can affect dental implants, like uncontrolled diabetes, poor oral hygiene, or untreated gum disease. It’s crucial to take these seriously since your body needs a healthy environment for the implants to heal and succeed.

And while the idea of surgery might sound intimidating, today’s implant procedures are surprisingly gentle, especially with sedation options. Plus, technology has made things more precise and comfortable than ever.

Let’s Talk Next Steps

Thinking of making the switch to dental implants? It all comes down to a personalized plan. Depending on the type of tooth replacement you need, whether it’s a single implant, implant denture, or a full All-on-4 setup, your provider will guide you through it. Every mouth is different, and a tailored approach is the best way to make your smile shine again.

If you’re ready to get dental implants or even just curious about what it might take to switch from dentures, don’t wait. Schedule a consultation, ask the questions that have been bugging you, and let a team of pros walk you through your options.

Because when it comes to upgrading your smile, you deserve solutions that don’t just fill a space, they feel like you again.