From slipping plates to shrinking jawbones, traditional dentures can present daily challenges. Dental implants, while more costly upfront, offer a fixed, natural-feeling alternative with long-term benefits. Here’s what the latest stats and research say about both options.
Tooth loss affects more than just your smile—it impacts how you eat, speak, and feel about yourself. For years, traditional dentures have been the go-to solution. But now, more patients are questioning whether removable plates are still the best option—especially as dental implant technology becomes more advanced and accessible.
So, how do the two really compare? Let's break it down.
Traditional dentures are more affordable initially, with a full arch ranging from USD $600 to $3,000. , by comparison, can cost between USD $2,000 and $5,000 per tooth. But the difference in longevity is significant.
While dentures typically need replacing every 5 to 7 years due to wear and bone changes, dental implants can last up to 40 years with proper care—making them a more cost-effective option long-term.
If you've worn or seen someone wear dentures, you're likely familiar with the common complaints: slippage while speaking, difficulty eating certain foods, and the need for adhesive. In fact, chewing efficiency with dentures sits at just 30% to 50% compared to natural teeth.
Dental implants, on the other hand, restore up to 95% of natural bite force. Because they are fixed directly into the jawbone, there's no slipping, clicking, or plate covering your palate—just solid, secure teeth that look and feel real.
One of the biggest drawbacks to dentures is what happens underneath. Without roots or implant anchors to stimulate the jawbone, the bone tissue begins to shrink. Studies show up to 25% bone loss can occur within a year of tooth loss, a process that continues over time and can alter facial structure.
Dental implants act like artificial roots, preserving bone density and preventing what's known as "facial collapse." For many patients, this bone-preserving benefit is the clincher when choosing between options.
Dentures must be removed daily, soaked, brushed, and periodically relined as the jawbone changes shape. Even digital dentures, while more precise, require multiple appointments and ongoing adjustments.
Implants, once healed, are brushed and flossed just like natural teeth. And while prosthetics (crowns or bridges) may eventually need replacing, the implants themselves often last decades with consistent care.
In a 2025 dental survey, 73% of patients who initially considered dentures switched to implants once they understood the long-term differences.
Clinical data supports the shift. Immediate-load implant protocols—like those using BioHorizons implants with Laser-Lok® technology—consistently show success rates above 95%. These systems promote strong bone integration and soft tissue attachment, supporting both function and aesthetics.
Dentures may still be the right fit for patients prioritizing short-term affordability, or for those with health conditions that preclude surgery. But for individuals seeking durability, stability, and long-term confidence, implants offer significant advantages.
Experts at clinics using have refined same-day full-mouth procedures that place 4 to 6 implants per arch and attach a full set of fixed teeth in one visit—combining speed with proven success rates.
Replacing missing teeth is a big decision, and the right choice depends on your goals, lifestyle, and budget. But as technology continues to advance, the case for implants becomes stronger with each study, each success story, and each confident smile.
Curious if you're a candidate for implant-supported restoration? You can take a short eligibility quiz, or consult with experienced professionals like the certified providers at TeethXpress for guidance on next steps.
