Difference Between Dentures and Implants: How to Choose the Best Option

When you’re missing teeth, you face more than just a gap in your smile. Eating your favorite foods becomes tricky, speaking clearly can feel awkward, and your confidence takes a hit. For many people in Palm Beach and Palm Beach Gardens, the big question becomes whether to choose dentures or implants. It’s a decision that affects not just your oral health, but your comfort, appearance, and even your wallet.

We see it all the time at Profiles OMS, where Dr Charles Makepeace and his staff specialize in providing oral surgery services with high-quality care. Whether it’s wisdom teeth removal, a dental implant procedure, or a full-arch tooth replacement, our approach is always the same: clear explanations, advanced technology, and patient care that feels personal.

Let’s break down the differences between dentures and implants so you can make a confident choice.

Understanding Denture Options

Dentures are removable dental appliances that replace missing teeth. They can be complete dentures for those who have lost all their teeth or partial dentures for those with a few natural teeth still in place. Dentures are designed to fit snugly over your gums and can be made from materials like acrylic or metal.

Traditional removable dentures have been around for centuries, and modern versions look far more natural than their early counterparts. Dentures are false teeth, but today’s versions can be matched to your gum color and tooth shade for a realistic look. Dentures are often chosen because they’re more affordable upfront than implants and don’t require oral surgery.

Dentures typically rest on the gums without being anchored into the jawbone. That means over time, as the jawbone naturally shrinks without stimulation, dentures may need adjustments or replacements. Dentures don’t fuse with the jawbone like implants do, so they won’t stop bone loss, but they do restore the appearance of a full smile.

What to Know About Implant Treatment

A dental implant is a small titanium post placed into the jawbone to replace the root of a missing tooth. Dental implants are designed to last for decades, and in many cases, implants can last a lifetime. Once the implant fuses with the jawbone, a dental prosthesis such as a crown, bridge, or implant-supported dentures is attached.

Dental implants and dentures offer different benefits. Implants offer a more permanent solution and provide stability that feels close to natural teeth. They stimulate the jawbone, which helps prevent bone loss and preserves facial structure. Implants require oral surgery, but with cutting-edge technology, the procedure can be precise and surprisingly comfortable.

At our surgery center in Palm Beach County, our oral and maxillofacial surgeon uses advanced imaging to plan each dental implant surgery. This allows us to provide painless treatment options, often with sedation or even general anesthesia when needed. Some patients may need additional procedures if they have low bone density.

Pros and Cons of Dentures

If you’re considering dentures, it’s important to explore the pros and cons.

Pros

• Less expensive upfront than implants

• No surgery required

• Quick replacement timeline

• Removable for easy cleaning

Cons

• Can be less stable than implants

• May shift during eating or speaking

• Require periodic replacement

• Can get cavities in certain situations

• Less chewing power compared to implants

Pros and Cons of Implants

Pros

• Unmatched stability and natural feel

• Fuse with the jawbone for permanence

• Prevent bone loss

• Can last a lifetime with proper care

• No slipping or clicking

Cons

• Higher upfront cost

• Requires surgery

• Requires healthy gums and adequate bone

Dentures vs Implants: Which Feels More Natural

When you compare dentures vs implants in terms of feel, implants come closer to natural teeth. Dentures are designed for comfort, but they rest on the gums rather than being anchored into the jawbone. Implants offer a more permanent and stable feel, allowing you to bite and chew with confidence.

Implants offer the advantage of preventing bone loss, which helps keep your facial features from appearing sunken. Dentures can be more affordable, but implants can last a lifetime with proper care, making them a better value over decades.

Differences Between Dentures and Dental Implants

The main difference between dentures and dental implants is how they’re supported. Dentures rest on the gums and are removable. Implants are surgically placed into the jawbone and are not removed. Dental implants are titanium posts that serve as artificial roots, while dentures are removable dental appliances.

Dentures may be more suitable for those who want a quick, low-cost solution, while implants are designed to last and feel more like natural teeth. The decision between dentures and dental implants often comes down to budget, bone health, and personal preference.

Cost of Dentures Compared to Implants

The cost of dentures is usually lower than the cost of dental implants. Dentures are more affordable upfront, but they may need to be replaced every 5 to 8 years. Implants cost more initially, but because implants are designed to last, they can be a better investment over time.

Implants can vary in price depending on how many teeth you’re replacing, whether you need bone grafting, and the type of restoration used. Implant-supported dentures offer a middle ground, giving you the stability of implants with the coverage of dentures.

Traditional Dentures vs Implant-Supported Dentures

Traditional dentures are removable and rely on suction or adhesives for stability. Implant-supported dentures are anchored to implants placed in the jawbone. Implant-supported dentures offer more stability and chewing power than traditional dentures and can be fixed or removable.

Whether you choose dentures or implants, our team at Profiles Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery uses advanced technology to ensure a precise, comfortable fit. Our oral surgical expertise means you can expect patient care focused on both function and aesthetics.

Tooth Replacement and Oral Health

Tooth replacement isn’t just about looks. Missing teeth can affect your bite, speech, and nutrition. Replacing missing teeth helps maintain dental health, improves oral hygiene, and supports your jawbone. Dental implants involve integrating with the bone, while dentures are designed for easy removal and cleaning.

Your oral surgeon will assess your mouth to determine if you’re a good candidate for dentures or implants based on your jawbone health, gums, and overall dental needs.

Candidate for Dentures or Implants

A candidate for dentures is typically someone missing multiple teeth who wants quick and affordable solution. Candidates for implants generally have good oral health, enough jawbone density, and are ready for a surgical procedure.

If you’re considering dentures or implants, your decision will also be influenced by lifestyle, diet, and budget. For example, implants offer a more permanent solution, but dentures can be removed and adjusted more easily.

Choosing Between Dentures and Implants

Choosing between dentures and implants can feel overwhelming, but a dental professional can guide you. At Profiles OMS in Palm Beach Gardens, we make this decision easier by explaining the pros and cons of each option, showing examples, and outlining the costs clearly.

Whether you choose dentures or implants, the goal is to restore your smile and function. With oral and maxillofacial surgery expertise, Dr. Charles Makepeace, a board-certified oral surgeon and diplomate of the American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, ensures each patient gets personalized care. He holds a Doctor of Dental Surgery degree, completed a residency in oral and maxillofacial surgery, and maintains membership in the American College of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons.