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What’s Better: Dentures or Dental Implants?

Choosing the Right Tooth Replacement in Lincolnshire, IL

If you’re missing one or more teeth, you’re probably wondering what the best long-term solution is: dentures or dental implants? Both options are popular and effective, but they work very differently—and the right choice depends on your goals, health, and lifestyle.

At Village Green Dentistry in Lincolnshire, IL, we help patients of all ages weigh the pros and cons of each option. In this guide, we’ll break down how they compare in comfort, cost, care, and long-term results.

What Are Dental Implants?

Dental implants are small posts, typically made from titanium or ceramic, that are surgically placed in the jaw to act as artificial tooth roots. Once the implant heals and fuses with your bone, it supports a crown, bridge, or even full dentures. Implants are considered the most natural-feeling and long-lasting solution for tooth replacement.

What Are Dentures?

Dentures are removable prosthetics used to replace multiple or all missing teeth. They can be full (replacing an entire arch) or partial (replacing a few missing teeth). Dentures rest on the gums or attach to remaining teeth with clasps. They’re a more affordable, non-surgical option that works well for many patients—especially those who are not candidates for implants.

Key Differences Between Dentures and Implants

While both dentures and implants can restore your smile, they differ in important ways.

Dental implants feel and function much more like natural teeth. They’re securely anchored into the jawbone, which means they won’t move or shift when you talk or eat. They also help prevent bone loss by stimulating the jaw, something dentures cannot do.

Dentures, on the other hand, are more budget-friendly up front and require no surgery. However, they may loosen over time, especially as the jawbone naturally shrinks without tooth roots to support it. Many denture wearers experience issues with stability, sore spots, or the need for adjustments and replacements every few years.

Implants are generally more expensive initially but often last decades with proper care. Dentures may need to be remade or relined every 5 to 10 years, which can add up over time.

Who’s a Good Candidate for Dental Implants?

Many adults, regardless of age, can be great candidates for dental implants, especially if they’re looking for something more secure than dentures.

If you’ve had dentures for years or have been missing teeth for a while, you may still qualify for implants after a bone evaluation. And if full implants aren’t the right fit, mini implants or implant-retained dentures may offer a more comfortable, stable solution than traditional dentures.

What About All-on-4 Dental Implants?

The All-on-4® system is a full-arch solution that uses just four strategically placed implants to support a complete set of replacement teeth. It’s ideal for patients who are missing most or all of their teeth and want a more stable, permanent option than traditional dentures. All-on-4 offers strong biting power, a natural appearance, and the convenience of fixed teeth that don’t slip or shift.

Are Dental Implants Safe?

Yes. Dental implants are one of the safest and most successful procedures in modern dentistry. With a success rate above 95%, they’re trusted worldwide for long-term tooth replacement. Implants are also available in metal-free, biocompatible materials for patients with sensitivities or preferences.

Call Us To Explore Your Options

Still wondering if dentures or dental implants are right for you? At Village Green Dentistry in Lincolnshire, IL, Dr. Dmitry Sokol and Dr. Nataliia Dauksz offer one-on-one consultations to help you make the most informed decision for your health, comfort, and lifestyle.

📞 Call us today at 847.634.3848 to schedule your consultation, or book online to get started. Whether you’re missing one tooth or many, we’ll help you find the best way to bring your smile back.