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Dental Implants vs Dentures: What’s the Best Tooth Replacement Option?

Dental Implants vs Dentures

Losing one or more teeth can have a major impact on your confidence, your ability to eat and speak comfortably, and your long-term oral health. Fortunately, modern dentistry offers excellent tooth replacement options, most notably, dental implants and dentures.

But which one is the right choice for you?

At Dr. Kaplansky’s office in Gasport, NY, we help patients navigate this important decision every day. Below, we’ll break down the differences between dental implants and dentures, including how they work, their pros and cons, and what to expect during treatment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Dental implant surgery is done under local anesthesia and involves minimal discomfort. Most patients report mild soreness for a few days. Dentures are non-surgical, but adjusting to them can cause temporary irritation.

You can eat many foods with dentures, but sticky, hard, or crunchy foods may be difficult. Implants allow for a much more natural chewing experience.

Most dentures need to be relined or replaced every 5–7 years due to changes in the jaw and wear on the appliance.

With proper hygiene and regular dental visits, implants can last a lifetime. The crown may need replacement after 10–15 years due to normal wear.

Yes! Many patients choose to start with dentures and upgrade to implants later. Keep in mind, bone loss over time can affect your eligibility for implants.

What Are Dental Implants?

Dental implants are permanent tooth replacements that look, feel, and function like natural teeth. The implant itself is a small titanium post that’s surgically inserted into your jawbone. Once it heals and integrates with the bone (a process called osseointegration), a crown is placed on top to complete the restoration.

Dental implants can be used to replace a single tooth, multiple teeth, or even support full-arch solutions like implant-supported dentures.

Benefits of Dental Implants

  • Long-Term Durability: Implants can last 20+ years with proper care.

  • Bone Preservation: Implants stimulate the jawbone, helping prevent bone loss that naturally occurs after tooth loss.

  • Natural Look and Feel: They closely mimic the look and function of natural teeth.

  • No Slipping or Movement: Unlike removable dentures, implants are securely fixed in place.

  • Low Maintenance: Just brush and floss like normal.

Considerations

  • Higher Upfront Cost: Implants tend to cost more initially, but they often pay off in the long run due to their longevity.

  • Requires Surgery: Implant placement is a surgical procedure and involves healing time.

  • Bone Grafting May Be Needed: If there’s bone loss, grafting might be necessary to support the implant.

What Are Dentures?

Dentures are removable prosthetic devices designed to replace missing teeth. They can be full (replacing all teeth on the upper or lower arch) or partial (replacing just a few missing teeth). They rest on the gums and are typically held in place with suction, clasps, or denture adhesive.

Benefits of Dentures

  • Affordable: Dentures are often more budget-friendly upfront.

  • Non-Invasive: Getting dentures doesn’t require surgery, making them ideal for patients with certain health conditions.

  • Quick Results: In many cases, dentures can be made and fitted in just a few visits.

  • Can Replace Entire Arches: Great for patients missing many or all teeth.

Considerations

  • Less Stability: Dentures can shift while eating or speaking, especially over time.

  • Bone Loss Over Time: Dentures don’t stimulate the jawbone, which can lead to facial sagging and bone resorption.

  • Adjustment Period: Some patients need time to get used to the feel of dentures.

  • Routine Maintenance: Dentures must be removed and cleaned daily, and they may need relining or replacing every few years.

How to Choose the Right Option

Deciding between dental implants and dentures isn’t just about appearance—it involves several personal and clinical factors. At our practice, we walk each patient through their options with a personalized consultation, helping you weigh the pros and cons based on your individual needs.

Here’s what to consider:

  • Oral Health: If you have enough healthy jawbone and are in good overall health, implants may be a great option.

Your current oral health plays a big role in determining which option is viable. Dental implants require a solid foundation, meaning you must have sufficient jawbone density and healthy gums. If you’ve experienced bone loss due to missing teeth, a bone graft may be needed before implants can be placed.

Dentures, on the other hand, are more accessible for patients with bone loss or those who may not be candidates for oral surgery. While they don’t prevent further bone resorption, they can still provide functional and aesthetic restoration.

 

  • Budget: Dentures offer a more accessible price point, while implants are a long-term investment.

While dental implants are a more significant upfront investment, many patients find them more cost-effective in the long run because of their durability and minimal maintenance. Dentures are generally less expensive initially, making them a popular choice for those on a tighter budget or looking for a temporary solution.

We’re proud to offer flexible financing options and will walk you through insurance coverage, potential payment plans, and long-term value for each treatment option.

 

  • Lifestyle: Do you want a permanent, maintenance-free solution? Implants may better suit your needs.

If you value simplicity and stability, dental implants may align better with your lifestyle. You don’t need to remove them for cleaning, and they won’t shift or click while you eat or speak. They’re virtually indistinguishable from your natural teeth.

Dentures require a bit more day-to-day maintenance, such as nightly removal and cleaning. While modern dentures are much more comfortable than in the past, they can still feel less secure than implants, especially over time.

 

  • Timeframe: Dentures can be completed faster, while implants take several months from start to finish.

If you’re looking for a quicker solution, dentures can often be fabricated and fitted in a matter of weeks. Dental implants, on the other hand, require a longer process that includes surgery and healing time—typically several months from start to finish.

However, many patients feel the wait is well worth it for the permanent, seamless results that implants offer.

The Bottom Line: Both dental implants and dentures offer reliable solutions for missing teeth, and the right choice depends on your unique needs. We’re here to help you evaluate every factor—from medical considerations to lifestyle preferences—so you can move forward with confidence.

 

Why Patients Trust Dr. Kaplansky for Tooth Replacement

Dr. Igor Kaplansky has been helping patients regain their smiles and confidence for over 20 years. As a highly trained provider of both dental implants and dentures, he uses advanced techniques and technology to create results that are not only functional but truly life-changing.

At his Gasport, NY practice, Dr. Kaplansky is known for:

  • A compassionate, patient-first approach

  • Custom treatment plans designed to fit your goals, timeline, and budget

  • Advanced diagnostic tools for precise planning and lasting results

  • Comfortable care options, including sedation dentistry for nervous patients

  • A team that treats you like family—because your smile deserves nothing less

Whether you’re missing one tooth or several, Dr. Kaplansky will guide you toward the solution that fits your needs and helps you smile with confidence again.

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