What's the difference between dentures and dental implants
Dentures rest on the gums, while dental implants anchor replacement teeth to the jawbone through implanted titanium fixtures.
The short answer
Dentures are removable replacement teeth supported by the gums or remaining teeth, whereas dental implants use titanium fixtures placed in the jawbone to support a crown, bridge, or denture. Implants require surgery and healing; dentures can usually be removed by the patient.
What is the direct answer?
What does this question mean?
A denture replaces visible teeth and some missing gum volume with an acrylic or metal-supported appliance. An implant is a biocompatible titanium post placed in bone; after healing, an abutment connects it to the replacement tooth or denture.
What can you do next?
A dentist assesses the number and position of missing teeth, gum health, jawbone volume, bite, medical history, and cleaning ability. Options may include a complete denture, partial denture, implant-supported bridge, or implant-retained denture.
When should you seek dental care?
Seek an assessment when missing teeth affect chewing, speech, comfort, or confidence, or when a denture rubs and causes a sore. Prompt care is needed for pain, swelling, a loose implant restoration, or a broken denture that could injure tissue.
What should you ask the dentist?
Ask which option fits your bone, gums, bite, dexterity, and health history, and what surgical and maintenance steps are involved. Ask how the proposed teeth will be cleaned and what happens if an implant or denture component loosens.
Frequently asked questions
Do implants feel like natural teeth?
They can provide a stable tooth replacement, but the sensation depends on the restoration, bone, gums, and bite.
Can I have implants if I wear dentures?
Some dentures can be retained by implants after an assessment of bone, gums, bite, and medical history.