Implants vs. Dentures: Which Is the Best Option for Long-Term Oral Health?

When facing tooth loss, choosing the right restorative dentistry in Saskatoon is crucial for your quality of life and oral health. Dental implants and dentures both restore smiles, but have different advantages and considerations.

Recent Statistics Canada data show that edentulism (complete tooth loss) in Canadian adults decreased to 4.4% in 2023–2024, from 23.6% in the early 1970s. Still, 11% of seniors aged 60 and older report having lost all their natural teeth. It's essential to understand your options, whether at a dental clinic in Saskatoon or with your dentist.

Understanding Dental Implants

Dental implants are artificial tooth roots surgically placed into the jawbone, typically made from biocompatible titanium. These posts act as stable foundations for replacement teeth, crowns, or bridges. The process involves osseointegration, where the implant fuses with the jawbone over several months, creating a secure base for restoration.

How Dental Implants Support Oral Health

The placement of dental implants requires good jawbone density and multiple appointments. A reputable dentist in Saskatoon can assess your suitability for implants. The titanium post fuses with the bone, supporting jawbone health.

Dental implants have a success rate of approximately 90–95% over ten years, according to the National Library of Medicine. Research from 2024 to 2025 indicates that with proper placement and maintenance, implants can last for decades, making them a reliable option for tooth replacement.

The Role of Dentures in Tooth Replacement

Modern dentures have evolved to offer improved comfort and a more natural appearance. A dental clinic in Saskatoon can custom-fit dentures to match your mouth's unique contours, restoring function for eating and speaking. The creation process typically takes a few weeks, making dentures a relatively faster initial solution compared to implants.

However, dentures require ongoing maintenance and periodic adjustments to ensure a proper fit and optimal function. They need daily cleaning, overnight soaking, and refitting as the jawbone naturally changes shape over time. Most dentures require replacement every 5–8 years, which can contribute to cumulative costs.

Comparing Long-Term Oral Health Impacts

Jawbone Preservation

A key difference between implants and dentures is their impact on jawbone health. When natural teeth are lost, the jawbone deteriorates due to a lack of stimulation. Dental implants mimic tooth roots, stimulating the bone and supporting its structure.

In contrast, dentures do not provide this stimulation, leading to bone loss and changes in facial structure over time, which may require more frequent adjustments for comfort.

Functionality and Comfort

Dental implants function similarly to natural teeth, allowing you to eat a wide range of foods comfortably. They can restore a high level of chewing capacity and remain securely anchored during daily activities.

Traditional dentures provide a moderate biting force, enhancing eating and speaking abilities.

However, some wearers experience minor slippage or discomfort, especially when consuming certain foods. Complete dentures may require adhesives for stability and a period of adjustment for optimal comfort.

Maintenance Requirements and Daily Care

Caring for Dental Implants

Dental implants require the same care as natural teeth, including regular brushing twice daily, flossing, and routine dental checkups. When you visit a dental clinic in Saskatoon for restorative dentistry, your dental professional can guide you on proper implant maintenance.

Maintaining Traditional Dentures

Dentures require more detailed maintenance. They must be removed nightly for cleaning and soaking, and the gums should be cleaned separately. After eating, dentures should be rinsed, and any adhesive residue carefully brushed away.

Financial Considerations

Initial Investment vs. Long-Term Value

Dental implants usually cost more upfront than dentures, with single implants priced between $3,000 and $4,500 in Canada. Their durability can make them more cost-effective in the long term, as they often don't require replacements.

Traditional dentures are less expensive initially, costing between $1,600 and $5,000 for a complete set; however, they require replacement every few years and necessitate ongoing maintenance. When discussing options with a dentist in Saskatoon, consider both short-term and long-term costs.

Who Is a Suitable Candidate?

Implant Candidacy

Successful implant placement requires adequate jawbone density and overall good health. Certain medical conditions, smoking, or uncontrolled diabetes can affect candidacy. In some cases, bone grafting may be recommended before implant placement, which can extend the treatment time and increase the cost.

Denture Suitability

Dentures can be an appropriate option for patients who are not candidates for surgery or who have experienced significant bone loss. They are accessible and suitable for many individuals, including those with health conditions that make surgery inadvisable.

Making Your Decision: Factors to Consider

Lifestyle and Personal Preferences

Your daily activities should guide your decision. If you prefer minimal maintenance and a permanent solution, implants may be a good fit for your lifestyle. If you choose a non-surgical, more affordable alternative, dentures may be a better fit.

Overall Health Status

Your overall health plays a crucial role in determining the suitability of your treatment. Consult professionals offering restorative dentistry in Saskatoon to evaluate your oral health, bone density, and medical considerations before deciding.

Long-Term Goals

If maintaining jawbone structure and stability are priorities, dental implants may be the preferred choice. If immediate restoration and lower upfront costs are more critical, dentures can effectively serve your needs.

The Importance of Professional Guidance

Choosing between dental implants and dentures is a personal and clinical decision that benefits from professional evaluation. Aspen Green Dental in Saskatoon provides comprehensive restorative dentistry services, including both implants and dentures.

Their team can assess your situation, discuss available options, and create a personalized treatment plan. Addressing tooth loss promptly can help prevent shifting of remaining teeth, gum issues, and changes in bite alignment.

The Bottom Line

Both dental implants and dentures can restore your smile and improve oral function. Implants offer long-term benefits, such as preserving the jawbone and enhancing stability, while dentures provide a more accessible, non-surgical solution with immediate results.

The right choice depends on your health, lifestyle, and financial goals. Schedule a consultation with Aspen Green Dental, a trusted dentist in Saskatoon, to discuss your options and receive expert guidance tailored to your needs.