By Dr. George Tunder – Montour Oral Surgery
When it comes to replacing missing teeth, two of the most common options are dental implants and dentures. But which one is better?
At Montour Oral Surgery, we help patients understand the benefits and limitations of each solution based on their unique goals, health, and lifestyle. Here’s how dental implants and dentures compare across the most important categories.
1. Stability and Function
Dental Implants:
Implants are anchored into the jawbone, offering unmatched stability. They function like natural teeth, allowing you to eat, speak, and smile with confidence—without slipping.
Dentures:
Traditional dentures rest on the gums and are held in place with suction or adhesives. They can shift during eating or speaking, and some foods may be difficult to chew.
A 2019 study in Clinical Oral Implants Research found that implant-supported prostheses provide significantly better chewing efficiency and bite force than conventional dentures [1].
2. Bone Health
Dental Implants:
Implants stimulate the jawbone just like natural tooth roots, helping to prevent bone loss over time.
Dentures:
Dentures do not stimulate the jawbone, which can lead to gradual bone resorption. This may result in facial collapse and a sunken appearance over time.
Bone resorption beneath dentures can reach up to 0.5 mm annually without stimulation [2].
3. Comfort and Fit
Dental Implants:
Implants are fixed and feel like natural teeth. There’s no risk of them slipping or causing sore spots.
Dentures:
Even well-fitted dentures can cause irritation or discomfort. Over time, they may become loose as the jawbone changes.
Implant patients report higher long-term satisfaction than those wearing removable prosthetics [3].
4. Maintenance
Dental Implants:
Implants are cared for like natural teeth—daily brushing, flossing, and regular dental checkups.
Dentures:
Dentures must be removed nightly for cleaning and soaking. They may require periodic relining or replacement due to wear or bone changes.
5. Longevity
Dental Implants:
With proper care, implants can last 25+ years, making them a long-term solution.
Dentures:
Dentures typically last 5 to 10 years and may need to be refitted or replaced.
The success rate of dental implants exceeds 95% over 10 years, according to multiple longitudinal studies [4].
6. Cost
Dental Implants:
Implants may have a higher upfront cost, but their long lifespan and low maintenance make them cost-effective in the long run.
Dentures:
Dentures are initially more affordable, but the need for future adjustments, relines, or replacements can add up.
7. Confidence and Quality of Life
Dental Implants:
They provide a natural appearance, restore full function, and boost confidence.
Dentures:
While improved over the years, dentures may still cause anxiety about slipping or clicking, particularly in social settings.
A 2020 systematic review found that implant-supported restorations significantly improved oral health-related quality of life compared to traditional dentures [5].
Final Thoughts
While dentures can be a suitable solution for some, dental implants are widely considered the superior option in terms of function, aesthetics, comfort, and bone health. At Montour Oral Surgery, we’ll help you determine the best treatment plan based on your needs and budget.
References:
- Oh, T. J., et al. (2019). The impact of implant-supported overdentures on chewing efficiency and patient satisfaction. Clinical Oral Implants Research, 30(6), 512–520.
- Atwood, D. A. (1971). Reduction of residual ridges: A major oral disease entity. Journal of Prosthetic Dentistry, 26(3), 266–279.
- Sadowsky, S. J. (2007). Treatment considerations for maxillary implant overdentures: A systematic review. Journal of Prosthetic Dentistry, 97(6), 340–348.
- Buser, D., et al. (2012). 10-year survival and success rates of 511 titanium implants. Clinical Oral Implants Research, 23(1), 8–16.
- Jokstad, A., et al. (2020). Patient satisfaction and oral health-related quality of life after treatment with fixed and removable implant-supported prostheses. Journal of Prosthodontics, 29(1), 2–8.
