Dental Implants vs. Dentures: Which Is Right for You?

If you're missing teeth, you have options — here's how to choose confidently.

Tooth loss doesn’t have to be permanent. Today’s dental advancements make it easier than ever to restore your smile with function, comfort, and aesthetics in mind. But when it comes to choosing between dental implants and dentures, the decision can feel overwhelming.

At Bethany Dental Group, we help patients across Bethany, Warr Acres, Yukon, and Oklahoma County understand their options clearly — so they can move forward with confidence. This guide breaks down the key differences, benefits, and considerations of implants and dentures.

What Are Dental Implants?

Dental implants are permanent tooth replacements that are surgically placed into your jawbone. They consist of:

  • A titanium post (root replacement)

  • An abutment (connector)

  • A crown, bridge, or denture (visible restoration)

Implants can be used to replace a single tooth, multiple teeth, or a full arch using All-on-4 implants or implant-supported dentures.

Advantages of Dental Implants

  • Permanent & durable: Implants can last decades with proper care

  • Bone preservation: Stimulates jawbone, preventing bone loss

  • Natural feel & function: Feels and works like a real tooth

  • No slipping or adhesives: Unlike traditional dentures

  • Improved bite force: Enjoy more food options with stronger chewing ability

Learn more about implants →

What Are Dentures?

Dentures are removable prosthetics used to replace missing teeth and surrounding tissues. Options include:

  • Full dentures – for complete tooth loss in the upper or lower arch

  • Partial dentures – for multiple missing teeth with some natural teeth remaining

  • Digital dentures – custom-fit, modern fabrication for improved comfort and appearance

Explore full and partial dentures here →

Advantages of Dentures

  • Lower initial cost: Typically more affordable upfront than implants

  • Non-surgical option: Great for patients who want to avoid surgery

  • Faster timeline: Dentures can often be made and fitted in a few weeks

  • Adjustable: Can be relined or replaced over time

Dentures are a reliable, time-tested solution for many of our patients — especially when budget or medical factors limit candidacy for implants.

Comparison Chart: Implants vs. Dentures

Feature Dental Implants Dentures
Longevity 15–25+ years with care 5–8 years before replacement likely
Jawbone Preservation Yes — prevents bone loss No — bone resorption may occur
Comfort & Fit Feels like natural teeth May shift or loosen over time
Cost Higher upfront cost, lower long-term Lower upfront, may need frequent updates
Maintenance Brushed like natural teeth Must be removed and cleaned daily
Speech & Eating Improved bite force and articulation May require adjustments to eat or speak
Surgical Requirement Yes No

So, Which One Is Right for You?

The right choice depends on several factors, including:

  • Your oral and bone health

  • Budget and long-term goals

  • Medical history

  • Comfort with surgery and healing time

  • Desire for permanence vs. flexibility

At Bethany Dental Group, we don’t push one-size-fits-all solutions. We’ll evaluate your needs and walk you through both options, answering every question along the way.

Implant-Denture Hybrids: The Best of Both?

Not sure about full implants or traditional dentures? You may be a candidate for implant-supported dentures, which combine the stability of implants with the affordability of dentures.

  • Fewer implants required

  • Dentures “snap on” to implants

  • Better fit, function, and peace of mind

  • Still removable for cleaning

Learn more about implant-supported dentures →

Restoring Smiles in Bethany and Oklahoma County

Whether you’re exploring implants, dentures, or another tooth replacement option, our team is here to guide you with honesty, expertise, and compassion. We serve patients throughout:

  • Bethany

  • Warr Acres

  • Yukon

  • The Village

  • Northwest OKC

We also offer flexible financing through Cherry and CareCredit, and accept Medicaid.

Schedule a Consultation Today

Let’s talk about your goals, your comfort, and your future smile — without pressure. Your path to tooth replacement starts with a personalized conversation.