Understanding your tooth replacement options — and which one is right for you.
If you’re missing one or more teeth, you’re not alone — many Canadians experience tooth loss due to injury, decay, or gum disease. Fortunately, modern dentistry offers several excellent solutions, including dentures and dental implants.
But which one is right for you?
Choosing between dentures and implants depends on your oral health, lifestyle, budget, and long-term goals. This guide breaks down the pros and cons of each option, and how to make the decision that’s best for your smile.
🧠 First, What’s the Difference?
- 🔹 Dentures: Removable prosthetic devices designed to replace missing teeth. They can be full (replacing all teeth) or partial (replacing some teeth).
- 🔹 Dental Implants: Permanent fixtures that replace missing teeth using a small titanium post placed into your jawbone, topped with a natural-looking crown, bridge, or denture.
🦷 Dentures: Pros, Cons, and Ideal Candidates
✅ Advantages of Dentures:
- Non-surgical option — no healing time required
- More affordable upfront than implants
- Great for those missing multiple or all teeth
- Custom-fitted to your mouth
- Partial dentures can be used if you still have some natural teeth
⚠️ Considerations:
- May require adhesives or adjustments over time
- Can shift or feel less stable while chewing or speaking
- Do not prevent bone loss in the jaw
- Typically need to be replaced every 5–10 years
🧑⚕️ Dentures May Be Right For You If:
- You want a quick, non-invasive solution
- You have significant tooth loss
- You have medical conditions that make surgery risky
- You need a budget-friendly option
🔩 Dental Implants: Pros, Cons, and Ideal Candidates
✅ Advantages of Implants:
- Permanent and secure — no slipping or clicking
- Stimulate the jawbone to prevent bone loss
- Look, feel, and function like natural teeth
- Allow you to eat all your favourite foods
- Typically last 20+ years or even a lifetime with proper care
⚠️ Considerations:
- Higher upfront cost than dentures
- Requires minor surgery and a healing period (usually 3–6 months)
- Needs sufficient bone density (though bone grafts are possible)
- Treatment time is longer
🧑⚕️ Implants May Be Right For You If:
- You want a long-term, low-maintenance solution
- You’re healthy enough for surgery
- You want to preserve your jawbone and facial structure
- You want the most natural look and feel
🧓 Are Implants Suitable for Seniors?
Yes! Age is not a barrier to dental implants. Many seniors in their 60s, 70s, or even 80s get implants successfully. What matters more is your overall health, jawbone condition, and goals.
If you’re missing all your teeth, implant-supported dentures may also be an excellent hybrid option — combining the security of implants with the coverage of full dentures.
💡 Dentures vs. Implants: Quick Comparison
| Feature | Dentures | Dental Implants |
|---|---|---|
| Permanent? | No (removable) | Yes (fixed) |
| Bone loss prevention | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| Stability | May shift | Very secure |
| Maintenance | Remove and clean daily | Brush and floss normally |
| Cost (initial) | Lower | Higher |
| Lifespan | 5–10 years | 20+ years or more |
| Procedure time | Days to weeks | Several months (healing) |
🩺 What Does Your Dentist Recommend?
The best way to decide is to book a comprehensive dental assessment. Your dentist will examine:
- Your remaining teeth and gums
- Bone density in your jaw
- Your overall health and medications
- Your goals, concerns, and budget
From there, you’ll get a personalized treatment plan that makes sense for your smile and lifestyle.
Final Thoughts
Whether you choose dentures, implants, or a combination of both, the most important thing is to replace missing teeth to protect your oral health, restore function, and regain your confidence.
Still unsure which option is right for you? Book a consultation with our team today — we’ll walk you through all your options and help you make a decision that works for your smile, your health, and your future.