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If you’re missing teeth, you’ve probably asked yourself: “Should I get dentures or dental implants?” At Gordon Dental Implants and Cosmetics in Leawood, Kansas, this is one of the most common questions patients ask. Both options can restore your smile, but there are big differences in comfort, stability, appearance, and long-term health.
As a Board-Certified Dental Implant Specialist (ABOI) who has placed and restored over 10,000 implants, Dr. Philip Gordon helps patients from Kansas City, Overland Park, Leawood, and Olathe choose the solution that best fits their lifestyle and goals.
What Are Dentures?
Dentures are removable prosthetic teeth that sit on top of the gums. They come in two main types:
Complete dentures (replace all teeth in one or both arches)
Partial dentures (replace several missing teeth, anchored by clasps)
Dentures are usually more affordable upfront, but they have limitations. They can slip, require adhesive, and often reduce chewing efficiency by as much as 50%.
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are small titanium posts that are surgically placed into the jawbone to replace missing tooth roots. Once healed, implants support crowns, bridges, or even full-arch bridges like All-on-4®.
Implants preserve bone, look natural, and function like real teeth. Unlike dentures, they don’t need adhesives or removal at night.
Key Differences: Implants vs. Dentures
| Feature | Dental Implants | Dentures |
| Comfort | Fixed in place, feel like natural teeth | Can feel bulky or loose |
| Stability | Anchored into bone, no slipping | May slip when eating or speaking |
| Chewing Power | Up to 90% of natural bite | About 40–50% of natural bite |
| Bone Health | Preserve jawbone and prevent shrinkage | Do not prevent bone loss |
| Longevity | Can last decades or a lifetime | Typically replaced every 5–10 years |
| Cost | Higher upfront investment | Lower initial cost |
Cost Comparison in Kansas City
Single Dental Implant: $3,000–$5,000
All-on-4® Full Arch Implants: $20,000–$30,000 per arch
Complete Dentures: $1,500–$3,000 per arch
💡 While dentures are less expensive at first, implants are a better long-term investment because they last longer, preserve bone, and improve quality of life.
Which Option Is Right for You?
Choose Dentures if: You want a more affordable, short-term solution or aren’t ready for surgery.
Choose Implants if: You want the most natural, permanent, and life-changing solution.
At Gordon Dental, we often meet patients who start with dentures but later switch to implants for greater comfort and confidence.
Patient Story: From Dentures to Implants
Betty, a patient from Overland Park, struggled with loose dentures for years. Eating was difficult, and she felt self-conscious smiling. After choosing All-on-4 implants with zirconia bridges, she regained full chewing ability and a confident, natural smile. “I wish I had done this years ago,” she says.
FAQs
Q: Are dental implants better than dentures?
Yes. Implants are fixed, stable, and preserve bone health making them the superior long-term solution.
Q: Am I too old for implants?
No. Many patients in their 60s, 70s, and even 80s successfully receive implants if they are in good health.
Q: What if I’ve lost bone?
Advanced techniques like bone grafting or sinus lifts can make implants possible, even in cases of severe bone loss.
Q: Why Choose Gordon Dental Implants and Cosmetics?
Board-Certified Implant Specialist (ABOI)
10,000+ implants placed and restored
1,000+ veneers and cosmetic smile makeovers
Advanced technology: 3D CBCT imaging, digital planning, in-house restorations
Serving patients from Kansas City, Overland Park, Leawood, Prairie Village, and Olathe
