Dentures vs Dental Implants

If you have lost teeth or been told your remaining teeth cannot be saved, the question of dentures vs dental implants is one you will need to answer. Both options replace missing teeth, but they work in very different ways, cost very different amounts, and suit different people.

This guide breaks down the honest pros and cons of each option, what they cost in Australia, how they compare day to day, and the questions to ask your dentist before deciding. The right choice depends on your jaw, your health, your budget and what matters most to you.

Dentures vs Dental Implants at a Glance

Before getting into the detail, here is a side-by-side summary. Every point below is expanded further in this article.

The rest of this article covers each factor in detail, including the day-to-day experience of living with each option.

How Dentures Work

Dentures are removable replacements for missing teeth. A full denture replaces all teeth in an arch (upper, lower or both). A partial denture fills in gaps where some natural teeth remain.

Modern dentures are made from acrylic resin, sometimes with a metal framework for partials. They sit on the gum tissue and are held in place by suction, the shape of the jaw ridge, and sometimes adhesive.

Types of dentures

• Full dentures replace all teeth in an arch
• Partial dentures clip onto remaining teeth to fill gaps
• Immediate dentures are fitted on the same day teeth are extracted, then relined once the gums heal
• Implant-retained dentures clip onto implants for extra stability but are still removable by the patient

Pros of dentures

• Lower upfront cost than implants
• No surgery required for conventional dentures
• Can replace a full arch in a shorter timeframe
• Suitable for patients who cannot have surgery due to medical conditions
• Can be relined or adjusted as the jaw changes shape

Cons of dentures

• Can slip, click or move during eating and speaking
• May require adhesive for a secure fit
• The underlying jawbone continues to shrink over time, changing the fit
• Gradual bone loss can affect facial appearance, causing the lower face to look sunken
• Need to be removed and cleaned daily
• Typically need full replacement every 5 to 10 years
• Chewing force is significantly reduced compared to natural teeth
• Some foods become difficult or impractical to eat
• Upper dentures cover the palate (roof of the mouth), which can reduce your sense of taste

How Dental Implants Work

A dental implant is a small titanium post that is surgically placed into the jawbone. Over several months, the bone grows around the post (a process called osseointegration), anchoring it firmly in place. A connector (abutment) and a custom crown are then attached on top.

For patients missing all teeth in an arch, multiple implants can support a fixed bridge. The most common full-arch approach is All-on-4, which uses four implants to support a complete set of fixed teeth.

Types of implant treatments

• Single implant replaces one missing tooth
• Implant bridge replaces several adjacent teeth using two or more implants
• All-on-4 / full-arch implants replace all teeth in an arch with four to six implants and a fixed prosthesis
• Implant-retained dentures use two to four implants to stabilise a removable denture

Pros of dental implants

• Fixed in place, no slipping or movement
• Stimulate the jawbone, which helps slow bone loss
• Near-normal chewing function
• Look and feel similar to natural teeth
• No adhesive needed
• Long lifespan with proper maintenance
• No need to remove for cleaning

Cons of dental implants

• Higher upfront cost than dentures
• Require oral surgery with associated healing time
• Not suitable for everyone (bone volume, medical conditions, smoking status)
• The full process takes several months from start to finish
• Complications, while uncommon, can include infection or implant failure
• Require ongoing professional maintenance and regular dental reviews

What Dentures and Implants Cost in Australia

Cost is often the first question, and rightly so. The gap between dentures and implants is significant upfront, but the long-term picture is different.

The long-term cost calculation

Dentures cost less upfront but need replacing. Over 20 years, a denture wearer may go through two to four sets, plus relining, adhesives, and adjustment appointments.

Implants cost more initially but rarely need full replacement. The crown on top may need replacing after 10 to 15 years, but the implant post itself can last decades.

Neither option is cheap. Cutting corners on either dentures or implants leads to worse outcomes and higher costs later.

Health fund and payment options

• Most private health funds with major dental cover provide partial rebates on both dentures and implants
• Annual limits and waiting periods apply. Check your fund directly using the item numbers on your treatment plan
• Third-party payment plans (TLC, Afterpay and others) are available at many dental practices
• Superannuation early release may be possible in limited circumstances through the ATO

Whether dental insurance is worth it depends on the level of cover, waiting periods and the treatment you are considering.

Who Should Consider Dentures

Dentures are a reasonable option for people who need teeth replaced but cannot or prefer not to have surgery. They also suit people with limited budgets who need a functional result now.

• Patients with medical conditions that make surgery risky
• People who cannot afford the upfront cost of implants
• Patients with significant bone loss who are not candidates for implants without grafting
• People who need teeth replaced in a shorter timeframe (immediate dentures can be fitted on the same day as extractions)
• Patients who are comfortable with a removable solution

If your dentures are becoming loose or uncomfortable over time, that is worth discussing with your dentist. Signs your dentures no longer fit explains what to watch for.

Who Should Consider Dental Implants

Implants suit people who want a fixed, long-term solution and are healthy enough for a surgical procedure. They are particularly worth considering if bone preservation matters to you.

• Adults with adequate jawbone to support the implant (or who are willing to undergo grafting)
• People who find dentures uncomfortable, embarrassing or impractical
• Patients in reasonable general health who can heal normally after surgery
• People who want to eat without restrictions
• Non-smokers or those willing to quit before and after surgery
• Patients looking for a long-term solution rather than repeated replacements

Age alone is not a barrier to implants. Patients in their 60s, 70s and beyond have implants placed successfully. The deciding factors are bone quality, general health and healing capacity.

At your first appointment, your dentist will assess bone volume with imaging and explain what the implant process involves from start to finish.

How Health Conditions and Medications May Affect Your Choice

Your general health plays a role in which option suits you. Several conditions common in older adults can influence whether implants are suitable, need extra planning, or are best avoided.

• Diabetes can slow healing after surgery and may increase the risk of infection around an implant site. If your blood glucose is well managed, implants may still be viable, but your dentist and doctor should coordinate care. How diabetes affects dental health covers this in more detail.
• Osteoporosis and bisphosphonate medications can affect how the jawbone heals after implant placement. Your dentist may need to consult with your prescribing doctor before proceeding.
• Blood-thinning medications require careful management around any oral surgery. Your dentist will advise whether to adjust your medication before the procedure, in consultation with your GP.
• Smoking can increase the risk of implant complications by restricting blood flow to the healing site. Most implant providers recommend quitting well before and after surgery.

Dentures do not require surgery, so they are generally less affected by these conditions. Poorly controlled diabetes can still affect gum health and denture fit over time.

If you take regular medications or manage a chronic condition, raise it at your consultation so your dentist can factor it into the recommendation.

Can You Switch from Dentures to Implants Later?

Yes. Many people start with dentures and move to implants when their circumstances change. However, years of denture wear can accelerate jawbone loss, meaning bone grafting may be needed before implants can be placed.

The longer you wait, the more involved the process may become. If you are considering this transition, your dentist can assess your bone volume with imaging and advise on what would be involved.

Questions to Ask Your Dentist Before Deciding

These questions will help you make an informed decision, whether you are leaning toward dentures or implants.

1. Am I a candidate for implants based on my bone volume and health?
2. What would the total cost be for each option, including everything that might be needed over the next 10 years?
3. What are the realistic risks and possible complications for each option in my specific case?
4. How will each option affect my ability to eat the foods I enjoy?
5. What is the maintenance commitment for each option?
6. If I start with dentures now, can I move to implants later?
7. What happens to my jawbone over time with each option?
8. How long will the treatment take from start to finish?

A good dentist will answer these questions honestly, without pushing you toward the more expensive option.

Frequently Asked Questions

Talk to Sundial Dental About Your Options

If you are weighing up dentures vs dental implants and want an honest assessment of what suits your situation, book a consultation at Sundial Dental. We will examine your mouth, discuss your options, and give you a written treatment plan with no pressure to commit on the day.

Sundial Dental has five clinics across the Mid North Coast: Port Macquarie, Taree, Kempsey, Wauchope and Laurieton.

Call (02) 6583 3533 or visit our contact page to book.

For independent reading, the Australian Dental Association and Healthdirect Australia both publish patient information on tooth replacement options.