Dental Implants vs. Dentures after 65: Which is Right for You?

Friday, June 6, 2025

As you age, maintaining a healthy, functional smile becomes more important than ever. Missing teeth can affect everything from nutrition to self-confidence, but modern dentistry offers two excellent solutions available in the United States: dental implants and dentures.

If you're over 65 and weighing your options, this post will help you understand the pros, cons, and key differences—so you can make the best choice for your lifestyle, budget, and long-term oral health. Read on.

Dental Implants and Dentures Explained

Before diving into comparisons, it's best to know the difference between the two tooth replacement options mentioned above.

Dental Implants are titanium posts surgically placed into your jawbone, acting as artificial tooth roots. Once healed, they’re topped with custom crowns, bridges, or even full arches of teeth.

If you're in Colorado, dental implants Lakewood are permanent, stable, and designed to mimic the natural appearance of teeth in both function and appearance.

Dentures, on the other hand, are removable oral appliances. There are two types of dentures: complete dentures and partial dentures that only fill gaps of missing teeth.

Traditional dentures rest on your gums and may require denture adhesives, while newer 'implant-supported dentures' or 'snap-in dentures' hold onto implants for added stability.

Why Replacing Teeth Matters After 65

Ignoring missing teeth can lead to:

Bone loss: Your jawbone density deteriorates without tooth roots to stimulate it, altering facial structure over time.
Nutritional challenges: Difficulty chewing can limit your diet, leading to deficiencies and not being able to enjoy your favorite foods.
Speech issues: Gaps or tooth loss may cause slurring or whistling sounds.
Self-consciousness: Many people hide their smiles and avoid social interactions because of not having any teeth.

Both implants and dentures address these problems—but in different ways. Learn more about each one below.

Dental Implants: The Gold Standard for Stability and Function

Dental implants are known for the following benefits:

Dental implants fuse with your jawbone (a process called osseointegration), making them a stable and effective solution for lost teeth. You can eat steak, apples, and sticky foods without hesitation—no slipping or discomfort.
Unlike dentures that aren't good with jaw bone preservation, implants prevent bone loss by mimicking natural tooth roots. This helps maintain your facial shape and prevents the 'sunken' look some denture-wearers experience over time.
With proper care, implants can last a lifetime. The crowns or prosthetic teeth atop them may need replacement every decade or so, but the titanium posts are permanent.
Brush and floss implants like natural teeth—no adhesives or overnight soaking required.

On the other side of the coin, there are many downsides to dental implants:

First, there's a higher upfront cost amounting to tens of thousands of dollars. However, the long-term value and the amount of money over time that you save on dental appointments are hard to overlook.
The process involves minor oral surgery, which may not suit those with certain health conditions.
Healing time may take months. Dental implants may not be a great option for those who need a quick recovery.

Dental implants are ideal for healthy individuals with adequate bone density who want a permanent, low-maintenance solution.

Dentures: Removable Options That are Affordable and Non-Invasive

Dentures have lower initial costs, require no surgery, and so on.

Traditional dentures are cheaper compared to dental implants, making them a budget-friendly choice. Even premium options are far cheaper than implants.

Aside from that, there's no surgery needed. Dentures offer quick results; you can get dentures in weeks—not months—after tooth extraction.

Finally, you don't need to worry about repairs and adjustments. As your gums and jaw change, dentures can be relined or remade for a better fit.

Nonetheless, there are downsides to dentures. They include:

Continued Bone Loss: Without tooth roots, your jawbone shrinks over time, requiring periodic denture adjustments or replacements.
Stability Issues: Dentures can slip while eating or speaking, especially lower ones. Adhesives help but aren’t foolproof.
Dietary Limitations: Hard or chewy foods may be off-limits.
Maintenance: They require daily removal, cleaning, and soaking.

Dentures are best for those seeking an affordable, non-surgical option or who lack the bone density for implants.

Hybrid Option: Implant-Supported Dentures

Can’t decide? A hybrid approach might suit you.

Implant-supported dentures (like All-on-4) combine affordability with added stability. They anchor a full arch of teeth, cost less than individual implants, and are removable for cleaning but won’t slip during use.

Top Considerations to Help You Pick Between Dental Implants vs Dentures

Don't jump the gun just yet. Keep in mind the following considerations:

Your health matters. Several factors like bone density, gum health, and overall wellbeing will play a key role in your decision. Your physician and dentist will work together to recommend you the best option.
If you have an active lifestyle and don't want daily removal or cleaning, implants let you eat, speak, and smile without worry. On the other hand, if you don't mind the daily work associated with dentures, you can opt for them.
Look into your current insurance coverage to see if dentures and/or implants are covered. Flexible financing options are available as well.
Implants are a one-time investment, while dentures incur recurring costs (adjustments, adhesives, replacements).

Be open with your thoughts with your dentist and/or doctor.

Final Words

There’s no 'right' answer—only what’s right for you. If you prioritize durability and natural function, dental implants are worth the investment. If you need an affordable, non-surgical fix, dentures are a reliable choice.

The key is to act. Missing teeth harm your health and confidence, but today’s options can restore both. Schedule a consultation with your dentist to discuss your needs, and take the first step toward a smile that lets you live life to the fullest—at any age.