Do you have missing teeth but are unsure what restoration to get? Dentures and dental implants are both popular choices to replace missing teeth. But which one is the best option for you? Dr. Ken Schweifler can help you review dentures and dental implants if you’re from Palo Alto, Los Altos, Cupertino, or the surrounding areas.
All About Dentures
Removable dentures are most commonly used when a whole arch of missing teeth needs to be replaced, but partial dentures are also an option. They’re made up of a base that’s resin and metal, supporting porcelain or plastic teeth. Two of the pros of dentures are that they’re cheaper upfront and you can get them quickly because they don’t have a surgical component.
Because dentures don’t replace the tooth root, your jawbone continues to deteriorate even with your restoration. This means that the fit of the dentures will slowly change and you’ll need to get them readjusted or replaced to make sure they still function correctly.
Dentures also need adhesive to stay in place. They can slip or fall out when you’re eating or speaking. And you only get back around 30-40% of your bite function, so certain foods will have to be removed from your diet. Because of the adhesive, you have to remove the dentures at the end of the day and soak them to make sure they’re cleaned properly.
The Benefits of Dental Implants
Dental implants are often called the gold standard of tooth replacement. Implants are made up of three separate parts. First, a titanium implant post is placed in the jawbone. Next, a piece called an abutment is attached to connect the post to the final restoration. While the final restoration is typically a dental crown, implants can also support a fixed bridge or denture.
Implants are the only replacement option that also replaces the tooth root. This stops your jawbone from deteriorating any further, and can even help to restore some of the damage that’s already occurred.
Implants also take longer to restore your smile. This is because after the implant post is surgically placed in your jawbone, it requires around 3-6 months to heal and fuse with the jawbone. This process gives implants the stability they’re known for. You get back 100% of your bite function with implants. You don’t have to change your diet or worry about the restoration slipping or falling out.
Even after years of advancement in dentistry, dentures are still bulky and hard to get used to. Implants feel the most like your natural teeth, particularly when they’re topped with a dental crown. They don’t require any extra maintenance, either. Simply brush, floss, and visit your dentist as you would normally.
Which Option Fits Your Life?
The right choice depends on what matters most to you. Here’s how to think about it.
You can choose dentures if you:
- Need a full arch replaced and want the lower upfront cost
- Have significant bone loss and don’t want grafting surgery
- Are comfortable removing and cleaning your restoration daily
- Want a solution quickly
Most often, we recommend implants if you:
- Want a fixed restoration that never comes out
- Need to preserve your jawbone and facial structure
- Want to eat whatever you want without restrictions
- Are willing to invest more upfront for a longer-lasting result
Choose implant-supported dentures if you:
- Need a full arch replaced but want more stability than traditional dentures
- Want a middle ground between cost and function
- Have some bone available for implants but not enough for individual teeth
Dr. Schweifler will walk you through these options at your consultation. His Biorejuvenation approach means he evaluates your whole mouth before recommending one. He looks at your bone density, gum health, and bite. If your bone isn’t ready for implants, he’ll discuss grafting. If your bite is unstable, he’ll address that before placing anything. That’s the difference his training makes.
Understanding the Cost Difference
Cost is the number one question patients ask. Here’s the honest answer.
Dentures cost less upfront. They don’t require surgery, and the process is faster. For patients on a tight budget or those who need a solution quickly, dentures can be the practical choice.
Dental implants cost more per tooth upfront. They require surgery, imaging, and a healing period. For patients who want a permanent solution, the investment is worth discussing in detail.
But upfront cost isn’t the whole story. Dentures need adjustment or replacement every few years as your jawbone changes. Those costs add up over time. Implants are designed to last decades with proper care.
Dr. Schweifler will give you a clear estimate before treatment begins. His practice offers financing options to make treatment more accessible. You’ll know what you’re paying for and why, without pressure or surprise fees.
Can You Switch from Dentures to Implants?
Yes. Many patients start with dentures and later upgrade to implants. The transition is possible, but it requires planning.
When you wear dentures, your jawbone continues to shrink. After years of denture wear, you may not have enough bone to support implants. That’s not a disqualifier. Bone grafting can rebuild the area before implant placement.
Dr. Schweifler will evaluate your bone density and gum health. If you’re a candidate for implants, he’ll map out the process. If you need grafting first, he’ll explain what that involves and how long it adds to your timeline.
The good news is that upgrading to implants can restore function you may have lost. Patients who switch often report eating more comfortably and feeling more confident in social situations. Dr. Schweifler’s health-centered philosophy means he supports that transition when it’s right for you.
Get The Right Tooth Replacement For You Today
If you’re missing teeth and trying to decide between dentures and implants, the first step is a consultation. Call Dr. Schweifler’s Los Altos office at (650) 489-4620 to schedule your appointment. You can also request an appointment online. We provide implants for Palo Alto, Mountain View, Sunnyvale, and the surrounding areas.